Exhibitions

Bowes Museum

The exhibition programme (changing every six months) showcases high-quality, contemporary and historical work by regional, national and international artists and makers. From unique exhibitions curated by staff, to touring exhibitions and loans from major institutions, there’s something to interest everyone. Alongside the major exhibitions are co-produced displays, artist commissions and outdoor installations. See what sparks your curiosity below.

Current Exhibitions

A triptych artwork featuring three life‑sized sculptural figures dressed in theatrical, stylised costumes, each seated within a tall framed display. The left figure wears striped trousers, a decorated jacket, and a large blue hat against a background covered in chalk‑like drawings and text. The central figure wears a pink patterned dress with a white, studded capelet, set before a dark backdrop filled with colourful doodles and symbols. The right figure wears a flowing pink gown with layered textures, seated in front of a background showing handwritten phrases including “LIFE HER LEGACY.” Each figure holds a small book or diary in one hand.

Meg Fletcher: Character Studies – 3 Acts

Fletcher explores the transformative power of clothing and examines the idea that we dress to manifest different versions of ourselves.

A brightly lit miniature theatre scene viewed through a red-framed window. The paper diorama shows several costumed figures on a stage, including performers holding props and a small dog at the front. A detailed illustrated audience forms the backdrop behind the stage.

Remaking Memories Together

A surreal collage of a woman's face and hands composed of overlapping photo fragments, creating a disjointed and abstract visual effect.

Not just Nude

A light installation reading "YOU CREATE WHAT YOU WILL" by Nathan Coley, set against the historic Bowes Museum grounds.

Nathan Coley: You Create What You Will and Tate Modern on Fire

Kinetic Arboretum in its new home in the Wildflower Meadow

Martin Smith: Kinetic Arboretum

Future Exhibitions

A full‑body figure stands against a plain light background wearing an elaborate sculptural outfit made from many layered garments. The clothing pieces are brightly coloured and vary in patterns and textures, including jackets, shirts, skirts, and fabric panels stacked and draped to form a voluminous, mound‑like silhouette. The figure also wears bright red tights and matching shoes, with only the legs visible beneath the mass of clothing.

Vivienne Westwood: Rebel – Storyteller – Visionary

Impressionist seascape painting depicting a rocky shoreline with waves crashing against the coast. The left side shows steep cliffs in muted pink and brown tones, while the sea dominates the right with choppy, textured waves in shades of blue, green, and white. The sky above is overcast with streaks of yellow light near the horizon, suggesting a break in the clouds or approaching sunset.

Impressions of Light: Masterpieces from MuMa – Le Havre and The Bowes Museum

An ornate 19th-century lace parasol with an intricately patterned cream lace canopy. The handle is made of ivory or bone with a decorative metal finial and matching ring attachment, connected by a delicate tasselled cord. The parasol rests against a dark background, highlighting its fine craftsmanship and elaborate lacework.

Lace and Legacy: Fashion Treasures from The Blackborne Collection

Past Exhibitions

Past Exhibitions

 Past Exhibitions

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