April – September 2013

Free admission

Welcome to Gallery OldhamOur extensive programme includes exhibitions, events, courses and talks, as well as popular schools workshops and family activities.Look out for the Family Friendly logo on exhibitions and events that are particularly suitable for families with young children and follow our new Gallery Trail.

Opening timesMon – Sat 10am-5pm (last admission 4.45pm) Closed Sundays and Bank Holidays

The Metrolink extension from Manchester to Shaw, via Oldham, is now open. The tram stops at Oldham Mumps, just a few minutes walk from the Gallery. Please see map on the back page or visit: www.metrolink.co.uk

3

Where are the collections? In response to public demand we have been developing more permanent collections displays around the building. In February 2013 we opened Oldham Stories, a new permanent gallery space devoted to our collections (see page 4).The Oldham PanoramaWe have a new display featuring our unique photograph of the town in 1876, which includes drawers full of intriguing objects and a touch screen interactive to help you find out more. The Art of the PotterSince 2007 we have been actively collecting studio ceramics, thanks to a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund’s Collecting Cultures Programme. Our new permanent display The Art of the Potter features a changing display of work by major potters from the 20th century to the present. The display includes pieces to touch and play with, developed in consultation with visually impaired people from Henshaws Society for Blind People. If you would like to volunteer on the ceramics project please contact: Dinah Winch on 0161 770 4632.Around the BuildingThere are several major pieces from our art collection on permanent display including John Collier’s monumental painting of The Death of Cleopatra and a humorous sculpture by Lucy Casson and Andy Hazell made in response to Collier’s painting.Have you seen www.bbc.co.uk/arts/yourpaintings? This partnership between the BBC and the Public Catalogue Foundation enables you to browse all our oil paintings online, and buy prints.

2

What’s in Store? We also have displays curated by staff and visitors on the first floor landings. These feature objects from our Social History and Natural History collections including everyday objects from the past and historical taxidermy specimens.New Gallery TrailYou can pick up a Gallery Trail leaflet which will highlight objects of interest around the building.Like most museums, it is not possible to show everything permanently. Many of our exhibitions contain objects from the collections and you can come Behind the Scenes for special tours of our stores to look at objects that are not currently on view (see page12). Cover image: Tyger, Tyger (detail) by Rodney Peppé, 1993Image below: Milk bottle advertising the Oldham band The Inspiral Carpets from our permanent collection

Foyer Display: Horse Skull 21 Feb – 24 AprilThis mandible and cranium of a horse is on loan to Gallery Oldham from the Horniman Museum and Gardens, London as part of their Object in Focus Loans programme funded by the Arts Council. The display shows aspects of the varied 700 000 year history of the horse in Britain and tells of vital roles played in farming, transport, recreation, folklore and warfare. This foyer display complements the display of skulls currently in our café, Naked Bean, which are from our own Natural History collection.

Community GalleryThe Community Gallery features work by groups or individuals who live or work in the borough or anyone whose subject matter relates to Oldham.Do you have an exhibition proposal? Please contact Joy Thorpe on 0161 770 4653 or email: joy.thorpe@oldham.gov.uk

400 Years of Oldham’s Grammar SchoolUntil 13 April. This exhibition traces the history of Oldham’s Grammar School from its foundation in 1611 to its rebirth as Hulme Grammar School in 1895.World of the Imagination 20 April – 15 JuneLocal artist R Stuart Calvert takes us on a journey to imaginary places, amazing landscapes and thought-provoking worlds in his first solo exhibition at Gallery Oldham.

Realising Potential 22 June – 17 Aug Young artists from Kingsland School showcase their talents and potential in this exhibition. Paintings, prints, graphic design and 3D installations come together to create an exciting and inspirational display. Positive Light 24 Aug – 19 OctTake another look at Oldham through the lens of photographer Mina Ahmed. Taken at night, these images show the beauty, vibrancy and colour of our town, encouraging us to explore a little further and think a little deeper.

Oldham Stories: Encounters with our CollectionsA New Permanent GalleryThis gallery is home for objects from our collections that relate to the history of Oldham. Here you can see some of our best-loved artefacts, alongside items that might surprise you.We bring together objects from our Natural History, Social History and Art Collections to look again at Oldham past and present. The display features local figures such as comic actor Eric Sykes, pioneering naturalist James Nield and popular artist Helen Bradley, and explores the changing industrial and cultural landscape of the area.From birds and shells to archaeology and banners every object has a tale to tell. Oldham Stories includes some of our best paintings, including important watercolours from the Charles Lees Collection and paintings by artists who recorded local views and characters. We also have original footage of a local whit walk.Oldham Stories includes a range of activities. You can follow our Owl Trail, identify the smells in our Edwardian Chemist’s shop and make a badge as a souvenir of your visit.Image: Banner of the Royton Baptist Sunday School around 1900

54

6 7

Last chance to see...Looking at Landscape: Pastoral to PresentUntil 13 AprilPaintings from our collections, including works by J.M.W.Turner, Francis Danby (below), Paul Nash and Sandra Blow, sculpture by Andy Goldsworthy and contemporary photography.

Shirley Baker: Looking OutwardsUntil 13 April This exhibition charts Shirley Baker’s long career and includes photographs from Manchester in the 1960s to contemporary Japan and France.

Tradition: Historic and Modern PotsUntil 11 MayExploring the relationship between ceramic history and contemporary makers, this exhibition is drawn from the collections of Gallery Oldham and The Harris, Preston. Please note that Natasha Daintry’s ‘Ocean’ is no longer in this exhibition as it has transferred to a major show of her work at Touchstones Rochdale, on from 29 March - 15 June.The show includes fun activities and ceramics to handle for all ages.Image: Tea cup by Paul Scott, 2007

Brian Clarke: Born Oldham 195320 April – 14 September

Brian Clarke is the world’s best-known stained glass and architectural artist, but his works on paper are a well-guarded secret. He draws every day, and his drawings are the foundation of his practice. The first exhibition of his works on paper for 40 years was held at the Saatchi Gallery in London in 2011. This exhibition builds on that acclaimed show, including recent drawings and paintings which reveal his exploration of line and colour, and provide an insight into his wider architectural work.Brian Clarke was born and educated in Oldham and designed the stained glass roof of The Spindles Shopping Centre in 1991. He has gone on to design major stained glass schemes such as the Royal Mosque, KKIA Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and Victoria Quarter, Leeds. Clarke still has links with Oldham and the show includes recent drawings of its landscape and architectural heritage.Image: Four Spitfires (detail), 2010

98

The Wonderful World of Rodney Peppé25 May – 14 September

Rodney Peppé has been making enchanting handcrafted toys since the late 1970s. He is the author of over 80 children’s books and created the tv characters ‘Huxley the (day-dreaming) Pig’ and ‘Anglemouse’. This exhibition includes toys, models and automata from throughout his career, alongside original artwork and films of his works in action. There are two working automata for visitors to operate and fun activities inspired by Peppé’s work.In the accompanying catalogue well-known Antiques Roadshow expert, Hilary Kay, writes ‘Peppé has developed a rare knack of preserving the joy of invention, making each of his creations appear spontaneous and fresh.’ There is much here to delight adults and children alike, and inspire the next generation of children’s artists. Meet the Artist! Rodney Peppé will be at the opening event on 25 May. Contact us for details.Image: Model for the Kettleship Pirates, 1983

Worn to be Wild27 April – 13 July

Worn to be Wild is an exhibition of costumes, inspired by wildlife and the evolution of fashion through the ages. This unusual combination was created by dress designer and textile artist Kate Plumtree. From a medieval deer to a contemporary hedgehog, each costume has been carefully designed and constructed by observing the movement, behaviour and habitat of each animal. Other stunning creations include an elegant 18th Century Mute Swan, a dramatic 1930s Golden Eagle and a sultry Victorian Fox.Kate manipulates fabric to emulate the colour, texture, pattern and form of each creature, using techniques such as dyeing, printing, painting and quilting. The show includes fabric samples, alongside sketchbooks, revealing the process of design and construction. There are even costumes for visitors of all ages to try on!The show also includes taxidermy specimens from our Natural History Collection.

Image: Hedgehog by Kate Plumtree

1110

The Oldham Open 28 September – 16 November

The ever-popular Oldham Open exhibition is back! The show is held every two years and is a celebration of creativity, showcasing work by artists living or working in the Borough of Oldham.The exhibition promises to be a visual feast and always includes work in a diverse range of media. From drawing, painting and photography to ceramics, jewellery and sculpture, the exhibition features a wide range of artists with different interests expressed through their work.The exhibition is also a great opportunity for visitors to view and buy a range of artworks by local artists and see the range of skills and talents in Oldham.Don’t forget to vote for your favourite piece in the People’s Prize competition during the course of the show. The winner will receive vouchers for art materials. Please get in touch to receive an Entry Form and details about submitting your work.

Spindleopolis! When Cotton was King20 July – November

In 1913 Oldham boasted more cotton spindles than any other town in the world and the town brimmed with confidence and certainty about its future. 100 years on, Spindleopolis revisits this time of economic boom using contemporary paintings, photographs and objects to explore the lives of ordinary Oldhamers. Cotton helped to create a prosperous working class whose cash fuelled a market for seaside holidays, football, music hall and fish and chips. The display uses the cartoons and words of local man Sam Fitton to recreate this lost world. This dialect writer and entertainer chronicled the lives of the working men and women of the town in the pages of the Cotton Factory Times, the operatives’ own weekly newspaper (pictured below).This exhibition is curated by historians Alan Fowler and Terry Wyke and includes objects from Gallery Oldham’s collections alongside loans from various North West institutions.

Behind the ScenesExplore objects in store linked to our new gallery, Oldham Stories. Free but booking essential.Tuesday 7 May 2pmSean Baggaley looks at the time capsules on display and other objects that people chose to be remembered by.Tuesday 2 July 2pmPatricia Francis looks at the wealth of objects from Oldham’s Natural History collections in store.Tuesday 10 September 2pmDinah Winch looks at paintings from the Charles Lees Collection and other treasures of the Art Collection.

12 13

Gallery TalksOur monthly talks are free, informal and last around 40 minutes with time for discussion afterwards.There is no need to book.If you are bringing a group of more than five please contact the Gallery on 0161 770 4653

Wednesday 10 April 2pmCurator Dinah Winch explores Tradition: Historic and Modern Pots.Wednesday 15 May 2-4pmKate Plumtree talks about her creations in Worn to be Wild. Please note this session is longer than a normal gallery talk.Wednesday 5 June 2pmArtist Brian Clarke will give a tour of his exhibition.Wednesday 26 June 2pmIndependent curator Barley Roscoe explores the Wonderful World of Rodney Peppé.Wednesday 24 July 2pmExplore Spindleopolis! When Cotton was King.Wednesday 11 September 2pmSocial History Curator Sean Baggley launches Heritage Open Weekend.

Saturday TalksSaturday 6 April 2.30pmThe History of the HorseGuest Curator, Paolo Viscardi, from the Horniman Museum and Gardens in London gives a talk linked to the loan of a horse’s skull on display in the foyer. Free but please book. Saturday 4 May 1.30 - 3.30pmDrop-in Ceramics Handling SessionExplore our ceramics handling collection alongside the exhibition Tradition: Historic and Modern Pots. Suitable for all ages.Saturday 8 June 2.30pmThe Oldham PanoramaCurator Sean Baggaley explores our famous 1876 photograph of Oldham and its accompanying display of objects from our Social History Collection.Saturday 14 September 2.30pmTreasures of the Natural History CollectionCurator Patricia Francis will take you into the stores to explore the Natural History Collection.Saturday 21 September 2.30pmThe Art of the PotterJoin curator Dinah Winch and volunteers to explore this display, including objects to handle.

Image: My Kitchen by Harold Harvey

A Greener GalleryThe Gardens around the Gallery attract a variety of wildlife, from nectar-rich flowers to encourage insects to a log pile for other mini-beasts, and feeders for birds. Take the time to look at the gardens on your next visit to the Gallery!

Identification ServiceOur curators provide a free identification and advice service but we are unable to give valuations. Please make an appointment in advance.Social and Local HistorySean Baggaley 0161 770 4662Sean.baggaley@oldham.gov.ukNatural HistoryPatricia Francis 0161 770 4863Patricia.francis@oldham.gov.ukArt and CraftDinah Winch 0161 770 4632Dinah.winch@oldham.gov.uk

Children and FamiliesActivities are most suitable for children aged 4-10 yrs. Children must be accompanied by an adult for all family activities.

Holiday fun at Gallery Oldham Free family activities take place during all school holidays. These are linked to our exhibitions so please take a look around the galleries before you come along. Face painting and craft activities at each session.

Free – no need to book, just drop in from 1– 4pmEaster – April 2, 3, 4, 5Half term – May 28, 29, 30Summer – July 22, 24, 29, 31 and Aug 5, 7, 12, 14

Super SaturdaysCraft activities, painting, drawing and creative fun for all the family on the first Saturday of the month. New for 2013 – explore our collections through inspiring iPad Creativity! You will be able to discover, create and play on a range of Apps, resulting in a masterpiece which you can access online!

Apr 6 – Take a look at some of the butterflies from our collection and make your own butterfly sun catcher.May 4 – Poetry, Stories and Creative Writing. Create your own iPad Story based on the Oldham Stories exhibition. June 1 – Embroider your own bookmark, inspired by samplers and textiles in the Oldham Stories exhibition.July 6 – Movement, Animation and Stop Motion. Bring the Rodney Peppé exhibition to life through movement and sound, using an iPad. Aug 3 – Discover our Owl Trail and then make your own Oldham Owl to take home.Sept 7 – Create a new thread using an iPad as part of the Spindleopolis Exhibition.Free, no need to book, drop in from 11am-3pm

The Small CinemaBringing cinema back to OldhamEvery month The Small Cinema hosts a children’s classic in The Performance Space.Sat 13 April, 2pm: The Lorax (U) Follow the fun Dr Seuss story of a charming creature fighting to protect his colourful world.Future films – Sat 11 May, Sat 15 June, Sat 27 July, Sat 17 Aug, Sat 21 Sept Tickets cost £3 and include a goodie bag for kids, with a chance to win a copy of the film on DVD. You can reserve tickets at The Welcome Desk.Get creative Have fun with film-related arts and craft sessions before each movie from 12noon–2pm in the Foyer. www.thesmallcinema.com for film listings and details.

1514

Wild About Oldham Day Saturday 15 June A day of free wildlife activities linked to our exhibition Worn to be Wild. Activities include mini-beast hunts in the Gallery Garden, making bird feeders and a wealth of stalls provided by wildlife organisations.This event is part of the Festival of Ecology (15 June - 4 August)This is a public focussed nationwide celebration of ecological science commemorating the centenary of the British Ecological Society, the UK’s academic learned society supporting the science of ecology.

This free event supported by the British Ecological Society.

Learning for all at Gallery OldhamSchools and higher educationWe deliver a comprehensive educational programme for students of all ages. Central to the Gallery’s work is the delivery of curriculum focussed workshops offering high quality learning opportunities for all schools, colleges and universities. Our workshops cover all areas of our collection of Art, Craft, Social and Natural History.To find out about our wide range of workshops and to order an education pack please contact our Education Development Officer, Laura Ferguson on 0161 770 4643 or Laura.ferguson@oldham.gov.uk

New for 2013Oldham Stories Free workshop for KS 1 and KS2 (2 hrs) Think you know the story of Oldham? Look again as we explore Gallery Oldham’s new permanent exhibition for 2013, featuring the full breadth of our collections. Investigate the stories that have shaped Oldham through a wide range of objects, from birds and watercolours to archaeology and textile samplers. Every object has a story to tell in this interactive and cross-curricular workshop. Museum on the Move Free workshop for KS 1 and KS2 (2 hrs) We are now able to offer sessions and workshops delivered in the classroom. Using museum objects our team can provide interesting, stimulating and curriculum linked learning opportunities on a range of subjects for KS1 and KS2 pupils.

Oldham Local Studies and ArchivesOldham Local Studies and Archives collects and preserves the archives and history of the Oldham area. It has items relating to Gallery Oldham’s collections including artists’ letters and local photographs.

William Cobbett - April to SeptemberA display celebrating the 250th anniversary of the birth of Oldham’s first MP.

Family History Advice

A family history adviser is available to help with your family history research every Monday and Wednesday, 2-4pm.

Talks for Beginners

Learn how to use basic genealogical sources, Saturdays 10.30am18 May – Getting Started at Family History 1 June – Births, Marriages and Deaths 15 June – Using the Census 6 July – Before Civil Registration and how to use Parish Registers20 July Recording Your Family TreeFree, but booking is essential.

Expert Advice

An adviser will be available to give one-to-one advice to experienced family historians who have encountered a problem in their research.Saturdays 2-3.30pm 13 April, 11 May, 15 June, 13 July. Free, but booking is essential.

1716

Adult Art and Craft CoursesWonderfully Wild!May 7, 14, 21 6 – 8.30pmInspired by the diversity of nature and linked to our Worn to be Wild exhibition. Explore working with different textiles and learn new techniques to make fabulous fabric accessories for your spring wardrobe. There’s no previous experience needed.Course of three workshops is £20 including all materials. To book call 0161 770 4653Collograph Printing and other workshops coming from October. Please see the website or get in touch for details.

GroupsFor groups of all ages and abilities our Learning and Outreach officer provides a range of hands-on activities, delivered both at the Gallery and off site at a venue convenient for you. We deliver workshops for a range of community and voluntary groups and offer textiles, printing and other craft based workshops on a variety of topics. To find out more call 0161 770 4774 or email glenys.walsh@oldham.gov.uk

Festival Oldham 2013Saturday 25 May 12noon–4pmJoin us for an exciting afternoon of free art and performance programmed by young creative producers.Expect live music, dance and drama on the outside stage, with digital art and exhibitions of young artists work inside. This free event is part of the annual Festival Oldham weekend, with celebrations continuing in Oldham Town Centre on Sun 26 May. Call Arts Development on 0161 770 3070 for further information.

Oldham Cultural ForumThe Cultural Forum is a meeting place for creative people to gain advice and network with other professionals working in the creative industries. The forum includes representatives from voluntary and community sector cultural groups, local artists and individuals interested in developing cultural activity. To book your place call Arts Development 0161 770 3070 or email rachel.wood@oldham.gov.uk Monday 10 June 6-8pmBBC Performing Arts Fund information and advice for artists wanting to exhibit in the Oldham Open 2013.Monday 16 September 6-8pmFunding advice for Artists and Community Organisations.

Family History: Advanced

24 May – Wills and Probate31 May – The Victorian Army Before 19137 June – Researching WW1 Soldiers14 June – Unusual Occupations21 June – Births, Marriages and DeathsFriday morning, 10.15am-12noon £3 per session and booking is essential.

U3A Genealogy Group

Meets on the third Wednesday every month.10am-12pm. Free, no need to book.

Oldham Historical Research Group

Meets on the third Wednesday of each month, 7pm, for anyone interested in the history of Oldham.

Palaeography Group

Meets one Saturday a month, 10-11.30am to transcribe wills and other documents relating to Oldham in the 16th and 17th centuries.To book on a session, or find out more, please contact:

Oldham Local Studies and Archives84 Union Street, Oldham, OL1 1DN.T: 0161 770 4654E: archives@oldham.gov.ukOpening HoursMon and Thu 10am-7pmTue 10am-2pmWed and Fri 10am-5pmSat 10am-4pm

1918

Naked Bean at Gallery Oldham Our new café is the perfect place to meet friends or colleagues for a bite to eat, or just a coffee. Families are very welcome.Naked Bean offers breakfast, snacks and homemade main meals including daily specials, soups, quiches and sandwiches, along with our well-known range of homemade cakes and muffins. Our seasonal menu makes full use of fresh produce and herbs from the patio garden. We also have a takeaway menu and offer an outside catering service.Opening hoursMonday – Friday, 7.45am - 4.30pmSaturday 8.15am - 4.00pmPlease note that access from 7.45 -10am is through the side entrance, off Southgate Street.Look out for our great meal deals and take advantage of our loyalty card scheme. Stuart and the team look forward to welcoming customers old and new to Naked Bean at Gallery Oldham.

Gallery shopAre you looking for a special gift or deserve a treat? Visit our new shop for a range of crafts, toys, souvenirs and gifts to suit all pockets, including an excellent range of cards and postcards, crystal engraved with the Oldham coat of arms, and a myriad of marbles! Our craft range is constantly expanding, and usually includes handmade textiles, ceramics, stained glass and jewellery. The shop also sells catalogues of current and past exhibitions and books about the Gallery’s collections.

Room Hire

Gallery Oldham’s versatile Education Suite, Performance Space and galleries are available to hire for meetings and functions. For more information please contact:T: 0161 770 4653 E: galleryoldham@oldham.gov.uk

Are you on our mailing list? Please contact us if you would like to go on our general mailing list. You will receive the brochure twice a year and occasional mailings. We also have the following mailing lists: Family Friendly, Ceramics, and Adult Courses.

Where are we?Gallery Oldham, Cultural Quarter, Greaves Street, Oldham OL1 1AL. Gallery Oldham is part of the Library and Lifelong Learning building.

How do I get in touch?T: 0161 770 4653E: galleryoldham@oldham.gov.ukwww.galleryoldham.org.ukwww.gooldham.com

Opening timesMonday – Saturday 10am-5pm(last admission 4.45pm)Closed on Sundays and Bank HolidaysTransportGallery Oldham is situated on Greaves Street in Oldham town centre. There is a bus stop on Union Street, in front of the Gallery. The main bus station is a 10 minute walk away. The nearest car park is Southgate Street. Oldham Mumps Railway Station is closed but the new Metrolink tram service to Oldham Mumps is up and running and there are buses from Greenfield Station. Metrolink extension works are continuing until 2014 so please check the website for travel updates www.oldham.gov.uk/metrolink.

Gallery access

There are two disabled car parking spaces on Greaves Street, next to the Gallery, and several spaces on the Southgate Street car park. Parking may be disrupted by Metrolink works. Please contact the Gallery for more details.The building has large lifts, accessible toilets and baby changing facilities. There is a baby feeding room in the library.

For a large print copy of this brochure please contact T: 0161 770 4653 E: galleryoldham@oldham.gov.uk

ST. MARYS WAY

To A627(M)(JUNCTION 20 M62)

MANCHESTER STREET

To ASHT ON-UNDER-LYNE

To ROCHDALE

Oldham College

Grange School

tunnel

Civic Centre

Tommyfield Market

BusStation

HORSEDG

ESTR

EET

Y O R K S H I R E S T R E E T

MagistratesCourt

Police HQ

Superstore

SpindlesShopping Centre

Town SquareShopping Centre

Oldham ParishChurch

Sports Centre

MANCHESTER ST.

M I D D L E T O N R D.W E S T S T.

EAGLE ST.

CANNON ST.

BO

OTH

S T.

YORK ST.

UNION S

T. W

.

CONNAUGHT ST.

CAVENDISH ST.

UNION ST. WEST

FOUNDRY ST.

CROSSBANK ST.

SILVER STREET

GEO

RG

E ST

.

JAC

KSO

N P

ITBARN ST..

BACK KING ST

PHOENIX ST.BRU

NSW

ICK ST.

CH

AUC

ER ST.

HO

BSON

ST.

PETER ST.

ASCROFT STREET

WELLINGTON

ROADPARK

CLEGG ST.

ASHWORTH ST.G

REAVES ST

SOU

THG

ATE ST.

QU

EEN STR

EETSTREET

FIRTHCLEG

G

RETIR

O ST.

WATER

LOO

BOW

STREET

STREET

R H O D E SB

AN

K

BRIDGE ST.

ROSCOE ST.

REED ST.

HAW PL.WALLS

BRO

OK STR

EET

WALLSHAW

STREET

REGENT STREET

BEEVER STREET

SHAW

RD

SHAW

RD

S T R E E T

EGERTON ST.JESPERSEN ST.

HOPKIN ST. CARDINAL ST.SCH. ST.

WRIGHT ST.

RHODES ST.

FAIRBOTTOM ST.

OLD CH.ST.

ROCK STREET

CHURCH LA.

R O C K

VICTO

RIA

ST.

GR

EAVESST.

M U M P S

S T R E E T

L O R

D

HENSHAWSTREET

ST. MARYS WAYRO

CH

DA

LE RD

H I G H S T.

ALBION STREETCURZON ST.

W A Y

H A M

KING STREET

KING STREET

A62

MIDDLETON RD

FEAT

HERS

TALL

RO

AD

W E S T E N

D S T R

E E T

HIGHFIELD ST.

ALDERSON ST.

U N I O N S T R E E T

ST.

O

J H

NST

Temporary Metrolink stop

H/FIELD ROAD

LEES ROAD

BOTTOM O’ TH’ MOOR

O L D

Gallery

Oldham OJ

HN

ST