This weekend – Saturday 24th July – the Whitaker Museum & Art Gallery re-opens after a long, long break for a major rebuild and overhaul. This has been funded largely through a Heritage Lottery Grant.

It’s now open Wednesday through to Sunday, 10am until 4pm, with a late night on Thursdays until 8pm. Plus there’s a kitchen and bar that will stay open later still. There’s also a new shop area in the entrance area. The building now includes a back cobbled yard area and a ‘Coach House’, both of which can be used for a wide range of activities.

Several local artists have been involved in the process of recreating the museum. Ruth Evans ‘Irwell Tapestry‘ is a highlight of the upstairs corridors. There’s a newly commissioned film showing, which features local craftspeople and poetry. Bob Frith has created a Cabinet of Curiosities (above) in the old Drawing Room, with help from Nicola Hebson and Kay Kennedy. Liam Spencer, Paddy Campbell and the Apna group also have their artwork on display. Chinese animator Kain Leo, and Manchester musician Chris Davies, have worked with Bob to create a short animation that shows in the Cabinet at 15 minute intervals.

Current art exhibitions are spread over three galleries and show the work of Kara Lyons and David Hancock. The museum is beginning an open application process for artists wishing to exhibit in the galleries. For further details contact info@thewhitaker.org