Government Art Collection to Exhibit in Bradford

A selection of artworks from the government’s private collection is scheduled for exhibition in Bradford next year, marking the city’s 125th anniversary. A complimentary public display, featuring 22 pieces chosen by young people from across the district, will be presented at Cartwright Hall art gallery starting January 31. Established in 1899, the collection encompasses over 15,000 works of art, including contributions from Bradford-born artists David Hockney, L.S. Lowry, and Tracey Emin. Curated by individuals aged four to 25 years old, this exhibition will form part of Bradford’s UK City of Culture 2025 celebrations. Furthermore, a second free public exhibition from the collection is set to open in May at The National Archives in Kew, London. This display will highlight pieces commissioned to commemorate King Charles III’s Coronation in 2023. Arts Minister Sir Chris Bryant stated: “We are determined to ensure that arts and culture are available to all, not just the privileged few. “I look forward to visiting these exhibitions and seeing what the young people of Bradford have selected from the collection.” The collection, comprising historic, modern, and contemporary British art, is typically showcased in government buildings both within the UK and globally. Jill Iredale, curator at Cartwright Hall, remarked: “The collection contains outstanding examples covering the breadth and diversity of art being produced by artists working in Britain today. “Being able to access this resource and discuss with young people across the district has been a real pleasure.”