The Shipley Art Gallery in Gateshead has a vibrant programme of creative activities for all ages.
Here you’ll find classes spanning a range of artforms, including drawing, painting, fused glass, ceramics, floristry and embroidery. Most classes are one-offs, enabling you to make a complete artwork in one session, under the guidance of friendly tutors.
There is also a calendar of events to celebrate the seasons. Here you can make beautiful seasonal decor for your home, or to gift to loved ones.
Craft markets take place in spring, summer and winter, offering the opportunity to meet local makers and buy enticing handmade items at affordable prices.
A range of self-led groups also meet at the Shipley, to develop their creative skills together. These include quilting, drawing and painting, crafting and lace making.
The programme also includes events and activities for families and schools. Crafty Kids is a weekly session especially designed for under 5s to explore the exhibitions. In school holidays, Family Crafting and Family Art Class offer creative opportunities for children and adults to enjoy together. Creative lego coding – where children design and build their own moving robots – is always popular!
As well as an array of activities, the Shipley offers a range of high quality exhibitions. The Shipley is the North East’s leading gallery of craft and design. Its five gallery spaces house a distinct and varied collection: highlights include Tintoretto’s Christ Washing the Disciples’ Feet which spans the back wall, creating a wow moment as you step inside. There is also a specialist ceramics gallery; a gallery depicting the history of nearby Saltwell Park and the Shipley’s early collections; and two galleries showcasing North East makers and designers.
For details of everything that’s happening at the Shipley, visit www.shipleyartgallery.org.uk or telephone 0191 477 1495.
Free entry – donations welcome. Open Tues – Fri 10am – 4pm and Sat 10am – 5pm. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Free on street parking. Step-free entrance. See www.shipleyartgallery.org.uk for further details.
Shipley Art Gallery, Prince Consort Road, Gateshead, NE8 4JB.
Hannah Mackay-Jackson
Project Coordinator (part time), Shipley Art Gallery
Friends of the Hatton 