Autumn Preview

This October, you are invited to celebrate the opening of major exhibition by Turner prize nominated artist Barbara `Walker, alongside the Whitworth's collection shows and autumn programme.
Special exhibition - Barbara Walker: Being Here
Explore the first major survey exhibition by acclaimed British artist Barbara Walker will bring together over 70 works spanning Walker’s career from the 1990s to today, including her Turner Prize nominated portrait series Burden of Proof (2022-23) and rarely seen drawings.

Celebrating the evolution of her compelling figurative practice and her unwavering commitment to transforming perceptions of Black presence, power and belonging in Britain. The display will include a new commission focusing on the Windrush generation and in response to the Whitworth’s collection of historic drawings and wallpaper.

Barbara Walker Being Here will be on display at the Whitworth until 26 January 2025.

The Whitworth's collection shows will also be celebrated as part of the autumn programme.

Alison Wilding: Sculptor's drawings

Though she is a sculptor first and foremost, drawing has increasingly occupied an important place in Wilding's work. This collection display presents a selection of Wilding’s works on paper, recently bequeathed to the Whitworth by Karsten Schubert.

The 'Death' of the Life Room

Set against the backdrop of the 1950s this collection display highlights the challenges faced by the life room tradition from the mid-20th century.
During the event

There will be a cashless bar for refreshments, and the Whitworth Shop will be open throughout the evening. Please note that the Whitworth Cafe will be closed from 4pm and for conservation reasons, food and drinks cannot be taken into the exhibition galleries.

Photography and videos will be captured throughout the evening for promotional purposes on the Whitworth channels, if you do not wish to be included, please let a member of our visitor team know.

About the venue The Whitworth is an accessible venue with facilities to support you during your visit, alongside this our visitor team will be on hand to assist you in the gallery. Find out more about planning your visit to the Whitworth and accessibility information for you.

If you’d like to speak to team member about any access or additional needs, please get in touch with the gallery and we will be happy to assist you. Contact: [email protected] or telephone: 0161 275 7450.

The Whitworth

The Whitworth art gallery and gardens is driven by a mission to work with communities to use art for positive social change, and actively addresses what matters most in people’s lives. We are proudly part of The University of Manchester, operating as a convening space between the University and the people of the city.

Host or Publisher The Whitworth