Gallery undergoes major transformation

A new extension has doubled the art space at the gallery in Barnsley offering a chance to see its collections which include masterpieces by artists such as Thomas Girtin, John Ruskin, JMW Turner, Prunella Clough, Eugene Isabey, Henry Moore, Paul Nash, Jacob Kramer and Vanessa Bell.

Paintings such as Wooded Valley painted by John Atkinson Grimshaw in 1862 and The Doge’s Palace, Venice painted by Louis Thienon in 1843 have been lovingly restored and adorn the walls of the gallery. Many of the artworks in the new displays have never been seen by the public before.

The Cooper Gallery and its board of trustees have announced the launch date of the new gallery will take place on Saturday, June 11, and will allow those visiting to be among the first to take a look around the transformed galleries and explore the recently built outdoor space.

The project attracted a grant of £638,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund.

Paul Elmhirst, Cooper trustee said: “A lot of hard work and determination has gone into the transformation of the historic Cooper Gallery. The objective was to extend the building in order to display more of the wonderful Cooper Collection, which also includes donations from Addy, Fox, Sadler, Sutherland and Whittaker.

“The aim was also to create a space which visitors will find stimulating and rewarding. I am sure people will agree that the gallery space has been greatly improved and that it will be an asset of which Barnsley and its residents can be proud.”

The launch event will feature fun free family activities which will take place throughout the day and people are invited to come along and take part.