Beyond the Canvas - A celebration of British Sculpture from the Ingram Collection

1 March- 7 June 2025


As part of our 25th anniversary celebratory programme, Rugby Art Gallery and Museum are hosting our first ever major sculpture exhibition in partnership with the renowned Ingram Art Foundation.

The show will bring together works from the renowned Rugby Collection with the Ingram Collection, one of the most significant collections of modern British art in the UK, to explore the diverse styles and techniques that defined British sculpture throughout the 20th century.  Key pieces from both collections will offer a well-rounded exploration of artistic movements through the century as they shift from figurative traditions to the embrace of abstraction, minimalism, and conceptual art.
 
This fun, accessible, but comprehensive perspective on sculpture promises to provide an accessible entry point to enjoying this dynamic artform, whilst igniting curiosity and sparking meaningful conversations with adults and children alike.
  
Sculpture with Colour and Strings, 1939/1961, bronze with a light brown and light green patina and string. Barbara Hepworth © Bowness. 
John Davies: Brown painted head
Barbara Hepworth: granite forms
Lucy Gregory 
John Davies: Head of Man
All images courtesy of The Ingram Collection. Photographer John-Paul Bland.

Volunteering Opportunity


Join Our Team for the Beyond the Canvas Exhibition!

Are you passionate about art and enjoy engaging with people? We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join us in delivering an unforgettable experience for visitors at Beyond the Canvas, a fun exhibition featuring incredible sculptural works from the Ingram Collection and paintings and drawings from the Rugby Collection.

What You’ll Be Doing:
•    Engage with Visitors: Welcome visitors, answer questions about the exhibition, and help them connect with the art.
•    Support the Artwork: Keep an eye on the sculptures to ensure their safety and care.
•    Enhance the Experience: Share insights to enrich visitors’ understanding of the artworks.
•    Be a Friendly Presence: Create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making everyone feel welcome.

What We’re Looking For:
•    A friendly and approachable attitude.
•    An interest in art or culture (you don’t need to be an expert!).
•    Good communication skills.
•    Reliability and a willingness to learn about the exhibition.

What You’ll Gain:
•    Learn about sculpture, modern art, and the stories behind the pieces on display through training and hands-on experience.
•    Develop new skills, including communication, visitor engagement, and teamwork, which can enhance your CV.
•    Play a key role in bringing the exhibition to life, creating a welcoming and enjoyable experience for visitors.
•    Help make art more accessible to your community by fostering meaningful connections between people and the artwork.
•    Meet and work alongside other like-minded volunteers who share a passion for art and culture.
•    Engage with visitors from diverse backgrounds, sharing stories and perspectives. 
 
Details:
•    Flexible shifts available across the exhibition’s opening times.
•    Training will be provided to help you feel confident in your role.
•    Volunteers of all ages and backgrounds are welcome.
Whether you’re looking to gain experience, meet new people, or simply love art, this is your chance to get involved in a unique exhibition.

Please email ragmvolunteers@rugby.gov.uk  Volunteers must be over 16 years of age.