Discover more at Beningbrough
Find out when Beningbrough is open, how to get here, things to see and do and more.
Art at Beningbrough
Explore The Reddihough Galleries and exhibitions past, present and future, on the first floor of Beningbrough Hall.
Beningbrough's changing exhibitions are thoughtfully curated. Working with artists, in partnership with museums and galleries, and drawn from National Trust collections. Over the coming years, the gallery will showcase high quality contemporary and historic art. A special thread running through the exhibitions will be the relationship to the gardens at Beningbrough, and the developments being led by garden designer Andy Sturgeon.
Now open - The Botanical World of Mary Delany
10 September 2024 – 23 March 2025 on open days
With just paper, paint and scissors, Mary Delany transformed ordinary materials into extraordinary, inspirational artworks. Discover the pioneering technique of this eighteenth-century artist, whose ‘paper mosaiks’ were celebrated as scientifically accurate botanical specimens. Explore the intricate detail of this new photographic display presented in partnership with the British Museum. Beningbrough is the first UK venue of this touring exhibition, in which high quality photographs allow more of Delany’s specimens to be seen.
Enjoy almost fifty artworks, further celebrating Mary Delany and her pioneering craft technique. See a selection of fascinating objects by historic women artists from across the National Trust's collections, fresh from the pages of a new upcoming publication. Come face to face with brand-new sculptures by Rebecca Stevenson, encompassing art, science, and creativity, in the Great Hall. Immerse yourself in the interactive origami room, designed by York artist, Kate Buckley and take in the abstract photography collages from York St John, Fine Art student, Amy Martina.
Exhibition Talks
Join one of a series of Exhibition Talks with experts involved in the creation of The Botanical World of Mary Delany. Taking place on the second Friday of every month during the exhibition. Full event details can be found here.
I have invented a new way of imitating flowers
A quote by Mary Delany 1772
More about the exhibition
Discover more about The Botanical World of Mary Delany in the Reddihough Galleries.
Rebecca Stevenson
Sculptor Rebecca Stevenson’s new work Mary, Maria, Marianne responds to three women artists whose work features in the exhibition: Mary Delany (1700-1788), Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717), and Marianne North (1830-1890). This ambitious new commission draws on Rebecca’s interest in historical enquiry, botanical art and figurative sculpture. ‘I hope this new work will shine a light on the extraordinary achievements of these three artists. Their courage and determination - as well as their beautiful works - have been an inspiration’. Stevenson lives and works in London and has shown her work internationally, most recently at the V&A where she was an artist in residence during the Donatello exhibition, and at Castle Eutin in Germany.
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Between exhibitions
Comings and Goings
This temporary interpretation will be in place on open days in between exhibitions. Uncover the varied and fascinating stories of the people who have shaped the hall and called it home over the centuries. Discover new stories, voices from the past and find out how they left their mark on Beningbrough.
The Reddihough Galleries
The late Mr Ian Reddihough, a proud Yorkshireman and avid supporter of Beningbrough Hall, has left a lasting gift in his will to support the conservation and care of this cherished place.
To commemorate Mr Reddihough’s exceptional gift, the first-floor art gallery spaces have been named in his honour. His generous contribution will ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the beauty and history of Beningbrough.
Mr Reddihough’s gift serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that gifts in wills can have. Whether it’s a gift to plant a new sapling or a gift to build an entire garden, we hope it inspires others to consider leaving a lasting legacy – no matter the size – of their own.
Find out how gifts in wills play a vital role in supporting the preservation of our nation's heritage and the special places that you love.
Don't miss
The gallery entrance panel, inscribed with Mr Reddihough's name was the winning entrant from a competition for Design Students at nearby York St. John University and designed by Hilary Pitcher.
Previous exhibitions
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Connect with nature, beauty and history at an exhibition near you. From showcasing art and collections, to exploring the connections between people and places, there's something for everyone.