Spirit of the North East: The art of Richard Hobson, a retrospective

Explore the landscapes, industry and communities of the North

Historic Event

This is a historic event or exhibition. It is no longer available to visit and this page is only retained as a record of its details.

Visit our What's On page for current and future event and exhibition details.

Spirit of the North East: The art of Richard Hobson, a retrospective

Dates

Until 6 December 2025 (historic event)

About

In this exhibition, discover how Richard Hobson (1945–2004) captured the changing landscapes, industry and communities of the North East.

From bustling shipyards to rugged moorlands and beyond, explore how Richard captured an industrial landscape and a way of life which was on the cusp of change. 

Hobson was possessed of a curious eye, a passion for nature and the great outdoors, and he lived for his art. His paintings feature looming power station cooling towers, and the dilapidated remnants of past industrial might. He also recorded the spectacular natural world of the North Country, on his frequent rambles in the countryside, accompanied by his wife Pat and son Harry. Above all, Hobson painted because he saw beauty before him, no matter what the subject, warts and all.