The Hepworth Wakefield to reopen on 21 May
11 May 2021
Following the government's announcement that museums and galleries can reopen as part of the third step out of lockdown, we are delighted to confirm that The Hepworth Wakefield will reopen its doors for the first time in six months on Friday 21 May.
We have put a number of safety measures in place to ensure everyone can enjoy their visit. These include limiting numbers into the gallery, sanitation stations and additional cleaning. You can read all our safety measures and what to expect here.
Our reopening exhibition is a major survey of the life and work of Barbara Hepworth, which brings together many of the Wakefield-born artist’s most celebrated sculptures together with rarely shown drawings, paintings and fabric designs. It includes major new commissions and work from artists Tacita Dean, Bridget Riley and Veronica Ryan to explore Hepworth’s ongoing legacy.
We strongly encourage you to book tickets online in advance of your visit, there is no timed entry, although at busy periods there may be a short wait to enter the exhibition. Ticket will also be available to purchase in person at the welcome desk on arrival.
New Explore & Draw packs have been created for families to explore our artworks, galleries and garden with specially devised looking and drawing activities. Across the summer, we will hold a season of live and online performances inspired by the exhibition, featuring artists, musicians and dancers including Nwando Ebizie and Hepworth Brass Band.
Simon Wallis, Director of The Hepworth Wakefield, said: ‘We can’t wait to welcome visitors back to The Hepworth Wakefield from 21 May, ten years to the day from when the gallery first opened. What better way to mark our 10th anniversary than with a timely look at Wakefield’s most famous daughter? Barbara Hepworth is a daily inspiration for us at the gallery and we look forward to sharing some of her greatest work with our visitors. All those living in Wakefield District, under 16s and our Members continue to benefit from free entry to all our exhibitions, so we hope to see many of you back in the gallery soon.’
The gallery, shop and café will be open Wednesday – Sunday, 10am – 4pm (last entry 3.30pm). Entry to Barbara Hepworth: Art & Life, across all ten gallery spaces, is £12 / £10 / Free for Members, Wakefield District residents and under 16s.
The Hepworth Wakefield Garden continues to be open daily. Our new garden café is open daily 11am – 3pm.
