Keswick Museum launched its new exhibition spaces this week, as part of its £125k Exhibitions 2020 project.
Supported through The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Friends of Keswick Museum, the project has seen the two main galleries within the Museum transformed. The exhibition spaces celebrate exciting stories from Keswick and its surrounding area history.
The first gallery tells the story of the landscape of the area, from how the landscape was created through to those that have lived and visited the area. Moving into the second gallery, the visitor can explore stories of those that have been inspired by the landscape through arts, crafts and literature. Highlights include the Keswick School of Industrial Arts and Southey’s Three Bears. Gallery 2 also includes a special exhibitions area showcasing until the 31st August the work of Canon Hardwicke Rawnsley, founder of the National Trust. The exhibitions are a great place for families, with Mr Fox guiding the children through different activities around the Museum.
Alongside the exhibitions will run a learning programme for schools plus a programme of talks and events for adults, including ‘Behind the Scenes’ tours to explore the collection stores. Details of events and activities are available from www.keswickmuseum.org.uk or through social media @keswickmuseum.
The project is supporting the development of the Community Gallery, a free-to-enter space for groups and individuals to create their own exhibitions. During February this area celebrates the parkrun that meets in Fitz Park each week.
Commenting on the launch, Becks Skinner, Museum Manager said: “It’s fantastic to see the new exhibition spaces come alive, thanks to the hard work of our dedicated volunteers and staff. The Museum is not only a must-see attraction for visitors but provides an important community hub that preserves and celebrates our heritage.”
