Tate artwork coming to Kettering gallery

For the first time artwork from Tate, which has galleries in London, Liverpool and Cornwall, will visit Kettering as part of the 2020 Vision exhibition at the town's Alfred East Art Gallery.

Contemporary pieces from artists such as Leon Kossoff and Howard Hodgkin will be on show alongside the wide variety of classical art in Kettering's own collection during the exhibition, which takes place from January 25 to March 7.

Cllr Scott Edwards, Kettering Council’s portfolio holder for community and leisure, said: “It’s fantastic news to hear that some of the Tate contemporary pieces are coming to our borough for the first time and that local people will have the chance to see them.

"It’s also a great opportunity for us to showcase many contemporary pieces from our permanent collection.

"I heartily congratulate staff and volunteers who have made this happen.”

Key loans for the 2020 vision exhibition have been made possible through the Ferryman Project: Sharing Works of Art which is supported by national Lottery players through The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the John Ellerman Foundation and Art Fund.

A launch night will be held from 6pm to 8pm on January 24 where people can be one of the first to see the Tate pieces.

There will also be children's workshops on February 3 and 4 where the gallery will host art workshops with two secondary schools, where students will focus on the works on loan from Tate.

The finished results will then be displayed in the gallery space as part of the 2020 Vision exhibition.

Guy Holloway, head of corporate and cultural services at Kettering Council, said: “Please come along to the Alfred East Art Gallery in the new year to enjoy the diversely engaging and thought-provoking contemporary artwork that this exhibition has to offer.

"The exhibition includes pieces from the permanent collection along with some pieces from the Tate which we are very privileged to be able to experience.”

Alongside the exhibition, the gallery will also host a series of events on contemporary art.

They include Lunchtime Talk: Modern Art and St Ives 1920-1985 at 1pm on January 31.

Referencing artists from the Alfred East Art Gallery’s permanent collection, this talk by renowned local artist Ian Luck focuses on St Ives and the important role it played in 20th century art.

Refreshments are served from 12.30pm and tickets are £5 or £3.50 with a Kettering Leisure Pass.

There is also Film Night: Lucian Freud - A Self Portrait at 7pm on January 31.

One of the most celebrate painters of our time, Lucian Freud's self-portraits spanning nearly seven decades are put together in one intense film.

Tickets are £10 or £8.50 for students or those with a Kettering Leisure Pass. Refreshments are included and space is limited so booking is essential.