One community, two exhibitions. Kettering has always been creative.
In the North Gallery, see how Kettering continued to embrace art while their Gallery was closed for renovation. Two community projects that showcased the positivity and talent of our town and its people.
During the renovation of Kettering Library’s spectacular new roof, a small number of Collyweston slates were available to families, individuals, and community groups to decorate, leaving their mark on the renovation of one of Kettering’s most iconic heritage buildings.
Using pens, paint, and even glitter, people grabbed the chance to become part of history. They painted pictures of family pets, their family trees, and even portraits of Sir Alfred East. Some wrote poems to lost loved ones, while others wrote messages of support for the Library and Gallery. Often heartwarming, always unique.
Slates being installed on the Library Roof
Before the finished slates were installed onto the new roof, photos were taken of each one. See them now in the North Gallery.
The annual celebration of art, music, and culture fills the town centre streets each year and 2026 was the biggest yet. In the Manor House Gardens, more than 2,000 people had the chance to experience artwork from Kettering’s art collection in a new and unforgettable way.
January Pantomime by James Fitton was recreated as a life-size, walk-in artwork, with actors from Laugh Out Loud Theatre Company adding to the anarchic atmosphere. Many selfies were taken, and new artworks were created.
January Pantomime by James Fitton
This exhibition showcases the mini-canvasses created on the day, inspired by Fitton’s artwork. Alongside the original print from the Gallery’s collection, other artworks created during World War Two for the CEMA initiative are also exhibited, showing how art from more than 70 years ago still inspires the Kettering community today.
- 24th October – 28th November
- Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm
- North Gallery
- FREE entry
January Pantomime © Judy and Tim Fitton