Artists show what home means to them at new exhibition

The What Makes a Home exhibition opened this week (17 July) in the Hinckley-based gallery on Lower Bond Street.

Visitors can enjoy a range of more than 50 artworks on display, including screen and oil paintings, abstract pictures and textiles, which all aim to answer the question ‘What Makes a Home?’

Artist Jackie Terrett is taking part in the exhibition and said:

“A home can have many meanings. For some, a place of sanctuary and refuge, or memories of traveling home with feelings of excitement and anticipation which never leave you years after the event.”

Textile artist Eliza Gooden explained that her work will have a personal meaning:

“Stitching a half-drunk mug of tea was my immediate thought when I saw this exhibition advertised. My partner has a brain injury and never drinks a whole mug, forgetting to finish it. Our house would not be the same without the half-drunk mugs.”

Executive member for culture, and deputy leader of the borough council, councillor Mark Bools, said:

“If you’re looking for something to do indoors this summer, then visiting the Atkins Gallery’s latest exhibition should be at the top of your list. There is a range of fantastic artwork on display, as well as plenty for children to see and enjoy. You can also visit the building’s popular café afterwards for a slice of delicious homemade cake.”

The exhibition is also being supported by Hinckley & District Museum, who have loaned objects from the homes of our past. Visitors to the exhibition can see a floor-standing radio, handmade toys, a selection of vacuum cleaners and Mrs Atkins’ tea set.

Mrs Atkins and her five sons John, Thomas, George, Hugh and Arthur, were responsible for the building of Atkins Building in 1875. They played a huge role in the transition of manufacturing in the Victorian period and would often discuss business around tea at Mrs Atkins’ home.

Philip Lindley, representative of Hinckley & District Museum, said:

“We are pleased to join in the Atkins Gallery’s newest exhibition by showcasing a selection of household objects and domestic appliances from the last century.”

The exhibition will also have activities for children, including colouring sheets, a play tea set, and a challenge to find our lost house keys in the exhibition. 

Atkins Gallery is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm and Hansom Café is open 9am – 3pm.  Free admittance to the Gallery. For more information on the Atkins Gallery, including how to have your own exhibition, please email info@atkinsbuilding.co.uk or follow on social media @AtkinsBuilding