Art: Hidden Gems

Have you ever stumbled upon a piece of art that just stops you in your tracks? That’s the kind of experience you can expect when you explore the North Tyneside Council Art Collection online.

This remarkable collection features 245 works of art, ranging from contemporary paintings and limited edition prints from the last 40 years, to oil portraits of local dignitaries, stunning seascapes and landscapes from the renowned Cullercoats Artists Colony, and an eclectic mix of other intriguing pieces.

When North Tyneside Council was established in 1974, they inherited a fascinating array of artworks, many with unknown or mysterious origins. These pieces, mostly from the Victorian and early 20th century, offer a captivating glimpse into the past and the rich artistic heritage of the region.

The early 1990s brought a fresh wave of creativity to the collection as the council began acquiring contemporary artworks through purchases and donations. Today, nearly 90 of these modern pieces are on permanent display at the council’s headquarters, showcasing the vibrant and dynamic art scene of the past four decades.

Among the collection’s highlights are oil portraits of civic dignitaries and local figures. These portraits not only capture the likenesses of important personalities but also tell the story of the community’s history and the people who shaped it. Unfortunately, these masterpieces aren’t on display for the general public, but you can view part of the art collection online.

Occasionally these hidden gems are on display in other Council facilities and in public spaces. Information will be available on the Council website.

See part of the collection here

Source: www.my.northtyneside.gov.uk