Spanish Gallery and Mining Art Gallery

If you've visited Auckland Castle, you will have noticed the mid 17th century Francisco de Zurbaran paintings in the Long Dining Room of 'Jacob and his Twelve Sons'. These paintings were the inspiration behind opening a gallery dedicated to 16th and 17th century Spanish painters in Bishop Auckland.

The Spanish Gallery which is a converted Victorian bank, only opened officially in April 2022. The Queen of Spain and The Prince of Wales (now King Charles!) did the honours and opened the gallery.

When we visited we saw three floors of artworks by well known artists such as El Greco, Velazquez and Dali. On the forth floor the room was full of incredible 3D printed Spanish sculptures, artwork and floor and wall tiles.

I was blown away by this gallery - it was not really what I expected at all. There were a couple of times I almost felt starstruck. On floor three until 4th December 2022, 'Christ of St John on the Cross' by Salvador Dali is displayed next to El Greco's 'Christ on the Cross'. Amazing to see in person and we spent a good while on this floor.

Another particular stand out for me was seeing art by Diego Velazquez - there is a copy of 'Las Meninas' on display and an interesting video describing the scene. Probably not something you would expect to see in a market town in County Durham.

As previously mentioned, the forth floor is entirely 3D printed; from the floor tiles, to the sculptures, to the full size copy of a tomb in Toledo. A really impressive room, and the work of artist Adam Lowe and Factum Arte.

I have linked up the Spanish Gallery and the Mining Art Gallery together in one post, as you aren't able to take photos inside the Mining Art Gallery. So, the best way to experience it, is just to go. The gallery situated in the old bank chambers, explores the art, culture and context of the mining industry in the North East. Some of the artists might be familiar: George Bissill, Tom Mcguinness, Kirill Sokolov and possibly the best known Pitman Painter, Norman Cornish.

Tickets for the Spanish Gallery are £14 per adult and tickets for the Mining Art Gallery are £7. You can but a two day all access pass, which covers entry to Auckland Castle, Auckland Tower, the Spanish Gallery and the Mining Art Gallery which costs £30. For more information visit the Auckland Project website.