Step back to the Carboniferous period, 100 million years before the dinosaurs. Northampton Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 21 February - Sunday 7 June 2026 Visit tropical forests and swamps teeming with bizarre and ferocious ancient monsters, some of which had larger teeth than T. rex. Meet the dinosaurs' distant ancestors, the very first reptiles, the largest creepy-crawlies ever to live, and prehistoric animals unlike anything you've ever seen before! A must-see for prehistoric monster fans of all ages!
An exhibition of drawings from the Northampton Museums & Art Gallery collection. This exhibition explores drawing as a fundamental artistic language, presenting preparatory sketches and finished works that reveal how ideas take shape on paper. Through the delicate studies of Henry Moore, the atmospheric sketches of Walter Sickert, the imaginative designs of Sir Edward Burne Jones, and the expressive drawings of Clare Abbatt, amongst others, visitors are invited to consider drawing not merely as a preliminary step but as an art form in its own right. The works on display highlight how artists across different periods and practices use line, tone, and observation to experiment, problem solve, and refine their vision. Together, they celebrate drawing’s enduring role as a tool for exploration, invention, and creative thinking.
This Exhibition explores the similarities between fine art and comics and how they are produced. It will explain the process of how comics are created and examine the common elements from fine art; the drawing, the painting and the poetry. It will also exhibit a story of epic proportions without superheroes, just ordinary people.
Step back to the Carboniferous period, 100 million years before the dinosaurs. Northampton Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 21 February - Sunday 7 June 2026 Visit tropical forests and swamps teeming with bizarre and ferocious ancient monsters, some of which had larger teeth than T. rex. Meet the dinosaurs' distant ancestors, the very first reptiles, the largest creepy-crawlies ever to live, and prehistoric animals unlike anything you've ever seen before! A must-see for prehistoric monster fans of all ages!
An exhibition of drawings from the Northampton Museums & Art Gallery collection. This exhibition explores drawing as a fundamental artistic language, presenting preparatory sketches and finished works that reveal how ideas take shape on paper. Through the delicate studies of Henry Moore, the atmospheric sketches of Walter Sickert, the imaginative designs of Sir Edward Burne Jones, and the expressive drawings of Clare Abbatt, amongst others, visitors are invited to consider drawing not merely as a preliminary step but as an art form in its own right. The works on display highlight how artists across different periods and practices use line, tone, and observation to experiment, problem solve, and refine their vision. Together, they celebrate drawing’s enduring role as a tool for exploration, invention, and creative thinking.
This Exhibition explores the similarities between fine art and comics and how they are produced. It will explain the process of how comics are created and examine the common elements from fine art; the drawing, the painting and the poetry. It will also exhibit a story of epic proportions without superheroes, just ordinary people.
Join us for a morning of discovery about artist David Gommon (1913-1987) Speakers include author of the recent critically acclaimed monograph Philip Vann, journalist Ian Mayes and Peter Gommon, David’s son, will all speak about David Gommon’s extraordinary creative talent. Opportunity to purchase signed copies of the recent critically acclaimed monograph ‘David Gommon’ by Philip Vann at discounted price. Join us for a lecture on the internationally respected artist David Gommon who lived and taught in Northampton. This is a unique opportunity to find out more about this artist and his connection to Northamptonshire, to view three pictures from the collection not normally on display and to buy a copy of the newly published monograph; David Gommon Author of the recent critically acclaimed monograph Philip Vann, journalist Ian Mayes and Peter Gommon, David’s son, will all speak about David Gommon’s extraordinary creative talent. David painted up until his death in 1987 and began his career as part of the 20’s group that included Christopher Wood, Barbara Hepworth, and Victor Pasmore under the patronage of Lucy Carrington Wertheim. Lucy was an art collector, patron and gallerist who gave him his first solo show and became a lifelong friend. After the...
Step back to the Carboniferous period, 100 million years before the dinosaurs. Northampton Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 21 February - Sunday 7 June 2026 Visit tropical forests and swamps teeming with bizarre and ferocious ancient monsters, some of which had larger teeth than T. rex. Meet the dinosaurs' distant ancestors, the very first reptiles, the largest creepy-crawlies ever to live, and prehistoric animals unlike anything you've ever seen before! A must-see for prehistoric monster fans of all ages!
An exhibition of drawings from the Northampton Museums & Art Gallery collection. This exhibition explores drawing as a fundamental artistic language, presenting preparatory sketches and finished works that reveal how ideas take shape on paper. Through the delicate studies of Henry Moore, the atmospheric sketches of Walter Sickert, the imaginative designs of Sir Edward Burne Jones, and the expressive drawings of Clare Abbatt, amongst others, visitors are invited to consider drawing not merely as a preliminary step but as an art form in its own right. The works on display highlight how artists across different periods and practices use line, tone, and observation to experiment, problem solve, and refine their vision. Together, they celebrate drawing’s enduring role as a tool for exploration, invention, and creative thinking.
This Exhibition explores the similarities between fine art and comics and how they are produced. It will explain the process of how comics are created and examine the common elements from fine art; the drawing, the painting and the poetry. It will also exhibit a story of epic proportions without superheroes, just ordinary people.
Cost: £3.50 per talk or £21 for a series ticket Includes tea, coffee and biscuits Booking Essential Join us for the Summer series of these seven engaging talks covering a wide range of topics, including local history, cultural heritage, notable figures, and the evolution of our communities. Whether you’re curious about the past, passionate about storytelling, or simply enjoy learning something new, these talks offer something for everyone. Delivered by knowledgeable speakers in a friendly and welcoming setting, each talk invites you to explore stories that have shaped our local identity and continue to inspire us today. Thursday 16 April The Roles of a Supporting Artiste Speaker: Robert Brewer Discover the behind-the-scenes world of a TV and film extra. Robert shares stories from his work on Hollywood blockbusters, TV dramas, soaps, comedies, and even a few adverts. Thursday 30 April Northampton Saints & the Second World War Speaker: Graham McKechnie BBC Radio Northampton sports editor and Saints club historian Graham McKechnie explores the remarkable wartime experiences of Saints players who served around the world — in the air, at sea, in North Africa, the Far East, and Normandy. Thursday 14 May The Surprise of My Life Speaker: Rosie Rushton An...
Join us for a fascinating afternoon as Rebecca Shawcross, Curator, delves into the powerful and often surprising meanings hidden within the museum’s world‑renowned footwear collection. In Footwear Stories, Rebecca invites you to explore how shoes have served as far more than practical objects for thousands of years. Each pair can reveal our occupations, origins, identities and the communities we belong to—often before we say a single word. From signals of status and wealth to expressions of cultural heritage, sexuality and personal style, shoes hold extraordinary stories about who we are and how we choose to be seen. After the talk, continue the experience with a relaxing afternoon tea in the museum café, included in the ticket price. Event Includes Curator talk in the Central Hall Exclusive insights into the museum’s shoe collection Afternoon tea in the Museum Café Q&A opportunity with Rebecca Shawcross Booking essential. Treat yourself—or bring a friend—for an afternoon of culture, conversation and cake. Book online for Curator Talk and Afternoon Tea Tickets are also available to purchase direct from the museum either in person or by calling 01604 526322, Tuesday to Saturday 10am – 5pm and Sundays 12-5pm Dietary requirements: we’ll do our best to accommodate...
Step back to the Carboniferous period, 100 million years before the dinosaurs. Northampton Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 21 February - Sunday 7 June 2026 Visit tropical forests and swamps teeming with bizarre and ferocious ancient monsters, some of which had larger teeth than T. rex. Meet the dinosaurs' distant ancestors, the very first reptiles, the largest creepy-crawlies ever to live, and prehistoric animals unlike anything you've ever seen before! A must-see for prehistoric monster fans of all ages!
An exhibition of drawings from the Northampton Museums & Art Gallery collection. This exhibition explores drawing as a fundamental artistic language, presenting preparatory sketches and finished works that reveal how ideas take shape on paper. Through the delicate studies of Henry Moore, the atmospheric sketches of Walter Sickert, the imaginative designs of Sir Edward Burne Jones, and the expressive drawings of Clare Abbatt, amongst others, visitors are invited to consider drawing not merely as a preliminary step but as an art form in its own right. The works on display highlight how artists across different periods and practices use line, tone, and observation to experiment, problem solve, and refine their vision. Together, they celebrate drawing’s enduring role as a tool for exploration, invention, and creative thinking.
This Exhibition explores the similarities between fine art and comics and how they are produced. It will explain the process of how comics are created and examine the common elements from fine art; the drawing, the painting and the poetry. It will also exhibit a story of epic proportions without superheroes, just ordinary people.
Booking essential, includes refreshments. Embark on a magical journey with Mini Museum Explorers! Every Friday morning, our beloved hands-on sessions invite curious little adventurers aged 2.5 to 5 years—and their grown-ups—into a world bursting with creativity and discovery. Each week brings a brand-new adventure filled with captivating stories, joyful music, imaginative art, and playful crafts. Explore the museum in a warm, welcoming space where imaginations take flight and new friendships bloom. And while your little explorer enjoys a tasty treat, you can relax with a well-deserved tea or coffee. It’s the perfect way to start your Friday—with fun, learning, and a sprinkle of museum magic! 17 April – Comic Capers 24 April – Dragons and Castles 1 May – May Day 8 May – Soldiers and Warriors 15 May – Truly Scrumptious! 22 May – Gardens and Plants 5 June – All the colours of the Rainbow 12 June – Animal Adventures 19 June – Smartest Giant in Town 26 June – Doctors and Nurses 3 July – Transport 10 July – Sailing the Seas These sessions are perfect for children aged 2.5 to 5 years, accompanied by parents or carers (no ticket needed for adults). Spaces are limited, so...
If you’re looking for a way to unwind after a busy week or just want to make some new crafting friends, come along with your chosen craft to these friendly informal sessions. They take place every Friday lunchtime in the Northampton Museum & Art Gallery lower café area. Drop in – no booking required but please purchase a drink or something to eat from the cafe.
Step back to the Carboniferous period, 100 million years before the dinosaurs. Northampton Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 21 February - Sunday 7 June 2026 Visit tropical forests and swamps teeming with bizarre and ferocious ancient monsters, some of which had larger teeth than T. rex. Meet the dinosaurs' distant ancestors, the very first reptiles, the largest creepy-crawlies ever to live, and prehistoric animals unlike anything you've ever seen before! A must-see for prehistoric monster fans of all ages!
An exhibition of drawings from the Northampton Museums & Art Gallery collection. This exhibition explores drawing as a fundamental artistic language, presenting preparatory sketches and finished works that reveal how ideas take shape on paper. Through the delicate studies of Henry Moore, the atmospheric sketches of Walter Sickert, the imaginative designs of Sir Edward Burne Jones, and the expressive drawings of Clare Abbatt, amongst others, visitors are invited to consider drawing not merely as a preliminary step but as an art form in its own right. The works on display highlight how artists across different periods and practices use line, tone, and observation to experiment, problem solve, and refine their vision. Together, they celebrate drawing’s enduring role as a tool for exploration, invention, and creative thinking.
This Exhibition explores the similarities between fine art and comics and how they are produced. It will explain the process of how comics are created and examine the common elements from fine art; the drawing, the painting and the poetry. It will also exhibit a story of epic proportions without superheroes, just ordinary people.
Step back to the Carboniferous period, 100 million years before the dinosaurs. Northampton Museum & Art Gallery Saturday 21 February - Sunday 7 June 2026 Visit tropical forests and swamps teeming with bizarre and ferocious ancient monsters, some of which had larger teeth than T. rex. Meet the dinosaurs' distant ancestors, the very first reptiles, the largest creepy-crawlies ever to live, and prehistoric animals unlike anything you've ever seen before! A must-see for prehistoric monster fans of all ages!
An exhibition of drawings from the Northampton Museums & Art Gallery collection. This exhibition explores drawing as a fundamental artistic language, presenting preparatory sketches and finished works that reveal how ideas take shape on paper. Through the delicate studies of Henry Moore, the atmospheric sketches of Walter Sickert, the imaginative designs of Sir Edward Burne Jones, and the expressive drawings of Clare Abbatt, amongst others, visitors are invited to consider drawing not merely as a preliminary step but as an art form in its own right. The works on display highlight how artists across different periods and practices use line, tone, and observation to experiment, problem solve, and refine their vision. Together, they celebrate drawing’s enduring role as a tool for exploration, invention, and creative thinking.
This Exhibition explores the similarities between fine art and comics and how they are produced. It will explain the process of how comics are created and examine the common elements from fine art; the drawing, the painting and the poetry. It will also exhibit a story of epic proportions without superheroes, just ordinary people.