Shipley Art Gallery — Attraction in Gateshead

Art museum that has free entry, the Shipley Art Gallery was opened in 1917 with a collection of 504 paintings bequeathed by a local solicitor Joseph Shipley. Since then the galleries collection has grown to include nearly 800 paintings and collections of works on paper, decorative art and contemporary craft. The Shipley's art collection was designated of national importance in 1998. Which includes a local favourite, William Irving's painting 'The Blaydon Racers'. In 1977 the Shipley began collecting contemporary art made in Britain. Over the last 25 years the venue has become established as a national centre for contemporary craft and has built up one of the best collections outside London, including ceramics, wood, metal, glass, textiles and furniture. The main hall had nearly floor to ceiling paintings, these were of figures, still life painted in different styles, also paintings of fisherman, farm workers and water views. Think enough paintings to suit any taste for everyday scenes. The paintings are by different artists that were very talented in my opinion. One of the side galleries was showing different types of chairs, some you can actually try. There is a wood and leather desk that is a marvellous piece of woodworking and leather craft art. I spent a well interesting 2 hours in the gallery, the art work is varied and stunning for some. And all of this for free, there is a donation box...

As a local north east museum, it is not bad. I like their portrait art or just any with humen in it, not many nature art capture my eyes, expect the Flemish parrot arts. Their collection of eggs and antlers from the left room are way more interesting. I think it was in the left or right room, there were some mini tile collections are quite impressive. They also sale some V& A products which is surprising. The only thing I don’t like is some tables and chairs that’s the in main halls and in the right room. I think when they don’t have event, they can put it away, so people have more space to walk around. However, it appears they have very few staff so maybe that’s why they just left. Overall, it’s a nice place to spend an hour at. Wonder how their event is, but you have to contact them directly ask for the...

This is a small but magical art gallery to visit. Tucked away in Gateshead, along the main route to Durham, or en route to a visit to see the Angel, if you are in the area, check to see what is being exhibited (free). You'll be surprised at the quality of the materials on exhibit, and these exhibits, whilst small, are always beautifully presented. The Low Fell area further up the main route also has plenty of eateries so it makes a pleasant drop-in visit even better. Very easy to get to on public transport - just a few stops. Get one of several buses from the main bus station at Gateshead Metro (transfare if travelling to Gateshead via Metro,...