Artworks

Artworks is a collection of over 900 works of art including paintings, original prints, drawings, sculptures, textiles and photographs. Most of the works are by British artists from the 20th and 21st centuries and established and famous artists like David Hockney, Elizabeth Frink, Bridget Riley, Stephen Conroy, Peter Howson and Paula Rego are represented in the collection.

Each year, new work is purchased so that the collection continues to grow. Artworks is special because it is rare for a museum collection of this standard to be available for loan to non museum venues.

Organisations in Leicestershire and Leicester can borrow works of art so that it can be simply enjoyed in your own venue or used as a teaching aid as part of your normal daily routine.

What can we use Artworks for? - Who can use Artworks? - How long can I borrow artworks for?
How much does it cost? - What about insurance? - I'm interested! What now?

"comicstrip" picture by P. J. Crook, Artworks Collection

"Comic Strip" by P.J. Crook. Artworks Collection.

What can we use it for?

Artworks can be used to enhance your teaching environment or workplace, for general appreciation or it can be used in more structured ways:
To support literacy hour and creative writing in the classroom – paintings and prints can be used as the basis for class discussion, as inspiration for stories, creative writing and poetry.
Adult groups can also use Artworks to inspire discussion, debate and creative activities.
To support Art, Design and Technology – Artworks can be used as an inspiration for children and adults to produce their own work, and studied for technique and the effects of line, pattern, colour, surface texture, composition, mood, medium…….looking at the real thing inspires people in a way that pictures in books cannot.
To support history and current issues - some works can be used to highlight aspects of war, families, cities and the environment.
To support science and maths. The chemistry of colour and physics of light are some of the building blocks and requirements for us to be able to produce and view art. The use of some works of art can be used to highlight mathematical principles, and colour contrasts and effects.

Who can use Artworks?

Artworks can be used by schools, colleges, community centres, day centres and public buildings in Leicestershire and Leicester. We are also piloting use of Artworks in the private sector, so if you work in a company where there is either public access to part of your building, or an area where a significant part of the work force gathers, then you may be eligible to borrow from Artworks.

How long can I borrow Artworks for?

Artworks are normally loaned for an academic year, with most loans being made in September and October, and collected in June. We will make loans for shorter periods on request, where possible.

How much does it cost?

The hire fee for Artworks varies from £10 - £25, according to the type of work and its popularity. We also make a modest charge for delivery and collection. Unlike Resource Box, borrowers cannot collect and return works themselves due to insurance consideration.

What about insurance?

Borrowers need to insure works of art while on their premises and hang works in a suitable place and in accordance with the terms and conditions of the loan. This is less daunting than it sounds, and gives you peace of mind for the duration of the loan.

I’m interested – what next?

If you would like to find out more, you can either arrange a visit to the Sherrier Centre, or arrange for the Artworks Officer to come and see you. We can show you images on a laptop to help you make your choice, and help you with ideas on using Artworks if required. Contact us by calling 01455 552 834 or e-mail us at sherrier@leics.gov.uk