Historic painting finds new home

A painting which has hung in Durham’s County Hall for decades has found a new home.

The Building of Durham Cathedral, a seven-metre-wide painting depicting the cathedral’s construction in the eleventh century, has been moved to Ushaw Historic House, Chapel & Gardens, where it is now on display.

The artwork was transferred by Durham County Council’s collections team following a careful removal and conservation process.

Painted by renowned North East artist Thomas William Pattison, whose work also features at the Laing Art Gallery, the piece had hung in County Hall for decades and is believed to have been acquired by the council in 1968. 

Its relocation comes ahead of the planned closure and demolition of County Hall, clearing the way for development at Aykley Heads as part of the emerging Durham Innovation District.

Andrew Heard, visitor programmes manager at Ushaw, said: “We’re thrilled to be able to display this magnificent and monumental painting at Ushaw. 

“We are sure that visitors will appreciate the opportunity to see this striking realisation of one of the most important events in Durham’s history.”

Councillor Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for leisure, tourism, regeneration and high street, added: “As part of the decommissioning of County Hall, we are in the process of carefully reviewing the collections that remain in the building and finding new homes where they can be preserved.

“The Building of Durham Cathedral depicts one of the most significant moments in Durham’s history. 

“For almost 60 years, the painting has watched over as councillors, officers, and members of the public have entered the council chamber to make decisions which have shaped County Durham.

“We’re delighted to work with Ushaw in finding a new home for this painting, where it will continue to be enjoyed by the public.”

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.