News release
5 September 2022
The Magic of Middle-Earth at Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum closes Saturday 17 September 2022
- One of the UK’s finest collections of artworks and objects relating to Tolkien’s fantastical world
- 16,000 visitors since opening in July
- Hands on activities including dressing up, take a selfie in the Hobbit chair, and children’s craft activity area
Tolkien fans have just days left to visit the exhibition The Magic of Middle Earth currently showing at Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum.
The Magic of Middle-Earth is a celebration of the incredible fantasy world which has inspired so many. The exhibition features a magical treasure trove of over 200 rare books, objects, and artworks including stunning paintings of Dragons, Ents and Elves, dramatic models and dioramas including The Battle Of Helms Deep, and Middle-earth inspired video games and Lego sets.
Regarded as the “father” of modern fantasy literature, J. R. R. Tolkien has inspired creative minds of all types, from artists, musicians and film makers to environmentalists and game designers. Tolkien himself took inspiration from Worcestershire’s landscape and was a regular visitor to the Malvern Hills in the 1930s with fellow writer C.S. Lewis.
Art Gallery & Museum Curator Claire Cheshire says:
“Visitors have absolutely loved immersing themselves in The Magic of Middle Earth. This has been one of our most successful summer exhibitions and it’s been great to see fans of all ages loving the books, artworks and hand-on activities. We shall be sorry to say goodbye to Middle-earth.”
More than 16,000 visitors have been to see The Magic of Middle Earth since it opened in July and the exhibition has received several 5-star reviews online, with visitors describing it as “amazing” and “great fun”.
The Magic of Middle-Earth is free and open Monday – Saturday 10.30am – 4.30pm until Saturday 17 September. For more information contact the Art Gallery and Museum on 01905 25371, visit www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk or follow @worcestermuseum.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
For further information contact:
Helen Large, at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum on 01905 25371 / 722141 or email Helen.Large@worcester.gov.uk
There will be a photo opportunity at the Art Gallery & Museum:
Thursday 8 September 10.45am with the Mayor of Worcester, Councillor Adrian Gregson touring the exhibition.
Image included: Visitors enjoying The Magic of Middle Earth exhibition.
Statement from collector Matt Fox: This exhibition has not been prepared, approved or licensed by the estate of J.R.R Tolkien or any of its assignees. This is not an official exhibition. The exhibitor recognises that some words, names and designations mentioned within are the property of the trademark holder. They are used for identification purposes only.
This exhibition supports the Woodland Trust to protect and plant trees.
Exhibition Listing:
The Magic of Middle-Earth
9 July – 17 September 2022
Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum
Open Mon – Sat 10.30am – 4.30pm (closed Sundays and bank holidays)
FREE
Information via 01905 25371 or www.museumsworcestershire.org.uk
From the collector who brought you May the Toys Be With You comes The Magic of Middle Earth! Journey beyond the books to discover the artistic legacy of J. R. R. Tolkien’s incredible fantasy world.
This major new exhibition celebrates the fantasy world brought to life by Tolkien, and the generations of writers, artists, musicians, film makers, environmentalists, and game designers it has influenced. Discover a magical treasure trove of over 200 rare objects and artworks. Fun for all ages, from little halflings to wizened wizards!