Gallery's entire art collection in new exhibit

Bosses say it is the first time people can get the chance to see the entire Rugby Art Collection for a number of decades

A borough's entire collection of 257 artworks are due to go on display together for the first time in decades.

A special exhibition, entitled Unveiled, is due to open at Rugby Art Gallery and Museum from 21 February until 6 June.

It spans a period of 80 years of British art, including post-war scenes and contemporary works.

Art bosses say it is a rare opportunity to see all the works together in one place, and to find out about how the collection has grown and changed over the years.

The Rugby Art Collection was founded in 1946 as a way of making art accessible to everyone.

It has become a nationally significant collection, bosses added, and included works by L.S. Lowry, Lucian Freud, Barbara Hepworth, Bridget Riley, Paula Rego, Lubaina Himid, Maggi Hambling and Gillian Wearing.

"It's a celebration of creativity, curiosity and community, showing how a public collection can remain alive and relevant today," said Maggie O'Rourke, council portfolio holder for partnerships and wellbeing.

"The Rugby Collection is owned by Rugby Borough Council on behalf of its residents, and I hope that many of our residents will want to visit and view the collection for the first time."

A new book will also launch alongside the exhibition, marking 80 years of the collection.

It covers the history of the collection, some of its most exciting acquisitions and the people who have helped shape it.

The new exhibition will be free of charge to visit.

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