The Harley Gallery

This new display for the Miniatures Octagon in The Portland Collection has been curated by Vanessa Remington, Senior Curator at The Royal Collection.

The 5th Duke of Portland was one of a trio of major 19th century British collectors in this field, and Remington describes The Portland Collection’s miniatures as “probably second only to the Royal Collection”.

The display reveals a man very different from his public persona. Despite his reputation as a recluse who avoided the outside world, Remington’s research shows a Duke who was nevertheless fascinated by youth, beauty, celebrities and high society.

Amongst the exhibits are miniature portraits of Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, Louis XV, King of France and the famous soprano, Adelaide Kemble, the Duke’s unrequited love. A series of pastel paintings of the opera singer, which he commissioned, will also be on show.

Suitable for

• Any age

Website

http://www.harleygallery.co.uk/exhibition/hidden-view-5th-duke-portlands-art-collection/

"Behind my images are a great passion for butterflies and other insects and many years of dedication to photography. Many of the photos have been used as illustrations in a variety of books but are now mainly used as art in home and public decor. The insects that are used are mostly borrowed from the Swedish Museum of Natural History in Stockholm, from my entomology friends who are collectors and some of the insects are from my own collection."


For the first time ever, an English exhibition of these extraordinary, vivid and detailed photographs.

Suitable for

• Any age

Website

http://www.harleygallery.co.uk/exhibition/under-the-microscope/

One of the UK’s undisputed leaders in textile art returns to Welbeck, more than 10 years since his last exhibition. A series of new pieces will be accompanied by commentaries from writers, critics and artists – all offering new perspectives on his work.

Michael Brennand-Wood’s work bridges the gap between art and craft practices and has earned international acclaim. He regularly shows at international art fairs and has works in collections including the National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto, Victoria & Albert Museum, National Gallery of Australia, Canberra (Aus) and Akzo-Nobel Art Foundation, Holland.

Suitable for

• Any age

Website

http://www.harleygallery.co.uk/exhibitions/

On the eve of a battle in previous centuries an extravagant banquet might be held, decorated with porcelain table sculptures depicting classical allegories or even the impending battle. ‘War & Pieces’ is Bouke de Vries’ contemporary response to this tradition. Besides war, chaos and aggression, the installation uses humour and beauty to satirise classical symbols.

Suitable for

• Any age

Website

http://www.harleygallery.co.uk/exhibition/war-pieces/

A bespoke dining table is laid with newly commissioned silver and a selection of modern glass, ceramics and textiles by leading UK artisans, brought together in a vibrant and colourful display. This modern table setting is introduced by extraordinary silver acquired by the Goldsmiths’ Company over the last 500 years, reflecting its long history of patronage.

From serving dishes to cutlery and sculptural bread baskets to wine coasters, the exhibition demonstrates both continuity and a break with tradition. As much as there have been changes in taste and style, domestic silver continues to be a source of inspiration.

Suitable for

• Any age

Website

http://www.harleygallery.co.uk/exhibition/made-for-the-table/

Get creative with your paint brush and decorate a gift for someone special. Choose from our wide selection of ready-made pottery, including mugs, plates, trinket boxes, egg cups and vases. Once decorated our technical staff will glaze and fire your pot.

Suitable for

• Any age

Admission

£5 per session.
All pottery items are individually priced and are not included in the ticket price.

Website

http://www.harleygallery.co.uk/event/paint-a-pot/

These sessions offer flexible studio space for those who can work independently, with a full range of ceramics facilities available including two kilns and six wheels.

The Pottery Studio is a large, 178sqm workspace in The Harley Foundation’s ‘East Workshops’ which were designed by architect John Outram.

Drop in, but if you require particular equipment it is recommended to book ahead.

Booking is advised as places are limited. Call 01909 501 700 or email shop@harleygallery.co.uk

Suitable for

• Any age

Admission

Prices start from £5

Website

http://www.harleygallery.co.uk/event/open-access-thursdays/

Explore and experiment with different techniques including slab and coil building. Our Studio Manager Lynne Staniland will be on hand to offer any hints and tips needed to create your masterpiece.

Suitable for children aged 4+. Adults must stay with their children at all times.

Suitable for

• Any age

Admission

Studio Fee: £5 (includes 1 1lb ball of clay)
Additional Clay: £3 per 1lb ball
Firing per pot: £3

Website

http://www.harleygallery.co.uk/event/clay-day/

Bring the family and get creative in our specialist Pottery Studio. Choose from a wide selection of ready-made pottery, from tea lights to skulls. Use our glazes to decorate them to your own design.

Our expert staff are on hand to help with ideas and techniques to help you make something really special, be it Halloween themed or a memorable keepsake.
Once decorated our technical staff will glaze and fire your pot. It will be ready to collect from Reception after a week.

Suitable for all ages, but children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
When visiting The Harley Pottery Studio, please report to a gallery reception on arrival. Last admission 2pm.

Suitable for

• Any age

Admission

£5 studio fee per person, per session.
All pottery items are individually priced and are not included in the ticket price. Pottery ranges from £10, for two egg cups, a mug, or a small plate, to £12 for a money box, to £22 for a bird-house.

Website

http://www.harleygallery.co.uk/event/paint-a-pot-2/

Michelle creates unique figurative sculptures from household waste and found objects, her work includes a Jaguar made from satellite dishes to portraits of people made from household waste.

During this 1.5 hour workshop, Michelle will assist you in creating your very own recycled bird of choice.

Adults must stay with their children at all times.
Booking is advised as places are limited. Call 01909 501 700 or email shop@harleygallery.co.uk

Suitable for

• 7-10
• 14-15
• 5-6
• 16-17
• 11-13

Admission

£6

Website

http://www.harleygallery.co.uk/event/recycled-birds-michelle-reader/