Sheffield’s Millennium Gallery features a programme of temporary exhibitions plus permanent galleries that provide a glimpse into the city’s artistic legacy and modern culture. Opened in 2001, this free-entry museum showcases art, design and Sheffield’s history.
What to see at the Millennium Gallery
The gallery’s permanent collection is split between the Sykes Gallery and the Ruskin Collection.
The Sykes Gallery presents Sheffield’s metalwork heritage, displaying an array of metal craftsmanship. From cutlery to silverware, it reflects Sheffield’s tradition of metalwork.
The Ruskin Collection, donated by artist and writer John Ruskin, includes manuscripts, minerals, watercolours and drawings, emphasising nature’s influence on art.
Temporary exhibition at the Millennium Gallery
The gallery hosts temporary exhibitions in collaboration with institutions that have included the V&A and Tate. Current and planned exhibitions include:
Show Your Metal
This exhibition (until 29 September 2024) explores the diverse applications of metal, from technology and transport to jewellery and architecture. Marking the 400th anniversary of the Cutlers’ Company in Hallamshire, it highlights Sheffield’s rich metalworking heritage dating back to the 12th century. Featuring over 100 objects from Sheffield’s Metalwork Collection, the exhibit showcases Old Sheffield Plate, electroplated metals and stainless steel and delves into the artistry and innovation behind these materials.
Tess Jaray: Paintings and Drawings Across 60 Years
This exhibition (until 13 October 2024) features the work of influential British painter Tess Jaray, known for her abstract exploration of form and space over six decades. Inspired by Italian Renaissance and Islamic architecture, Jaray’s paintings and drawings transform recognisable forms into pure, abstract shapes. The display includes a selection of her works from the past 60 years, alongside pieces that influenced her creative practice.
Ruskin Collection: Hand, Head and Heart
This exhibition (until 1 December 2024) showcases the ideals of Victorian artist and writer John Ruskin (1819–1900), focusing on his efforts to promote art and nature appreciation in Sheffield. Ruskin advocated for handmade goods, believing they fostered moral character and connected individuals to nature. This redisplay examines the contemporary relevance of handcrafting, featuring artworks from educational and therapeutic contexts. This exhibition will also see the unveiling of a new memorial quilt honouring Terry Higgins, the first known UK AIDS-related fatality.
Visiting the Millennium Gallery
The Millennium Gallery is close to Sheffield Hallam University, around midway between the railway station and the city centre. It adjoins the Winter Garden and it is very close to the Peace Gardens in the heart of the city.
The gallery is open Tuesday to Sunday (it is closed on Mondays) and entry is free of charge.
Visitor facilities include a cafe and gift shop and its central location means that there are many other options to eat and drink nearby.
Allow a couple of hours for your visit.
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