Alongside the art on display, overseen by Auckland Castle Trust’s Curator, Sara Fortune and Curatorial Director, Dr Chris Ferguson, the new Mining Art Gallery will also offer a strong learning and engagement programme, designed to help visitors engage with the works and the heritage behind them. Auckland Castle Trust is currently recruiting for volunteers to help within the gallery and has already received interest from those living in former mining communities who are keen to share their stories. Auckland Castle Trust’s Curatorial Director, Chris Ferguson, said: “Mining Art is a subject close to the heart of many people in the North East, and one I am personally very passionate about.
Creating a new home for the Gemini Collection will make these moving artworks widely available and accessible for everyone to enjoy and study. “Moving forward we will be working closely with Bob and Gillian, and the Auckland Castle Trust’s Engagement Team, to ensure the stories of the region’s mining heritage and those who artistically depicted it can be told and understood for generations to come.” The Mining Art Gallery forms part of Auckland Castle Trust’s wider £70m project, designed to revitalise Bishop Auckland and transform Auckland Castle into an arts, faith and cultural destination of international importance. For more information on Auckland Castle Trust log on to www.aucklandcastle.org
Anyone interested in volunteering at the new gallery can also email michele.armstrong@aucklandcastle.org or call 01388 743750
