The Bob Abley Art Gallery is one of the largest and most vibrant galleries in the North East of England. Spanning two floors, the gallery showcases an ever-evolving collection of artwork from more than 50 of the UK’s leading regional, national, and internationally renowned artists.
Alongside its permanent displays, the gallery hosts a diverse programme of temporary and touring exhibitions throughout the year, giving visitors the opportunity to experience inspiring collections and creative works from across the region and beyond.
At the heart of the Bob Abley Art Gallery is a belief in the power of art to connect, inspire, and transform. We create an immersive environment where visitors and artists can share creativity, opening hearts and minds to new ways of seeing and expressing ourselves, each other, our environment, and our diverse histories.
Through meaningful engagement with art, we aim to leave every visitor feeling inspired, enriched, and empowered with a fresh perspective on creativity, self-expression, and heritage. Whether you are a seasoned collector, an art enthusiast, or simply curious to explore, the Bob Abley Art Gallery offers a welcoming space to discover something new with every visit.
The Bob Abley Gallery is free to visit Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.
Alongside its permanent displays, the gallery hosts a diverse programme of temporary and touring exhibitions throughout the year, giving visitors the opportunity to experience inspiring collections and creative works from across the region and beyond.
At the heart of the Bob Abley Art Gallery is a belief in the power of art to connect, inspire, and transform. We create an immersive environment where visitors and artists can share creativity, opening hearts and minds to new ways of seeing and expressing ourselves, each other, our environment, and our diverse histories.
Through meaningful engagement with art, we aim to leave every visitor feeling inspired, enriched, and empowered with a fresh perspective on creativity, self-expression, and heritage. Whether you are a seasoned collector, an art enthusiast, or simply curious to explore, the Bob Abley Art Gallery offers a welcoming space to discover something new with every visit.
The Bob Abley Gallery is free to visit Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm.
Former Interim Gallery Manager, John Thompson, explains the gallery’s affinity with the great Norman Cornish, its importance to Spennymoor’s social history and how it promotes the ground-breaking work of pioneering local artists.
Cornish Studio
Discover the works of Norman Cornish and see a recreation of his studio.
Perhaps the most famous artist associated with Spennymoor, Norman Cornish (1919-2014) is recognised as one of Britain’s greatest mining artists. His paintings vividly capture everyday life in Durham’s mining communities, documenting the people, streets, pubs, and pit villages that shaped the region’s identity. The Gallery is privileged to display and offer works by Cornish, as well as a recreation of his original studio, allowing visitors to gain a unique insight into the environment in which he created many of his most iconic paintings.
Perhaps the most famous artist associated with Spennymoor, Norman Cornish (1919-2014) is recognised as one of Britain’s greatest mining artists. His paintings vividly capture everyday life in Durham’s mining communities, documenting the people, streets, pubs, and pit villages that shaped the region’s identity. The Gallery is privileged to display and offer works by Cornish, as well as a recreation of his original studio, allowing visitors to gain a unique insight into the environment in which he created many of his most iconic paintings.
The Spennymoor Settlement
The Gallery celebrates the remarkable legacy of the Spennymoor Settlement, a pioneering educational and cultural movement that nurtured generations of talented artists. Permanent works by Settlement artists form an important part of the Gallery’s collection, including pieces by Tom McGuinness, George Robson, Jack Roach and John Smith.
The influence of the Settlement extends far beyond County Durham, having produced some of the most important artistic voices of the twentieth century. Through exhibitions, permanent displays and education programmes, the Gallery continues to preserve and promote this unique artistic heritage.
The influence of the Settlement extends far beyond County Durham, having produced some of the most important artistic voices of the twentieth century. Through exhibitions, permanent displays and education programmes, the Gallery continues to preserve and promote this unique artistic heritage.
The Robert Heslop Room
The Robert Heslop Room, named in honour of the famous Pitman painter, is home to a permanent collection of his artwork. Visitors can also enjoy pieces by local artists Chris and Steve Rocks, as well as an exquisite handcrafted oak table by master craftsman Robert Thompson also known as “Mouseman”.
Discover a range of local and regional artists…
