Located in the heart of Coventry, the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum—affectionately known as The Herbert—is a vibrant cultural hub that offers a captivating blend of art, history, and creative exploration. Named after Sir Alfred Herbert, a notable industrialist and philanthropist, the museum stands as a testament to his vision and generosity. With its striking architecture and diverse collections, the Herbert is a must-visit for anyone eager to delve into the rich tapestry of Coventry's heritage.
The origins of the Herbert Art Gallery and Museum date back to the pre-war era when Coventry was home to the Benedictine Museum and the museum of the Coventry City Guild. However, the city's art treasures and historical artifacts were scattered across various buildings. In 1938, Sir Alfred Herbert donated a substantial sum of £100,000 to establish a dedicated gallery and museum. Construction began in 1939, but the outbreak of World War II halted progress, leaving only the basement completed.
Post-war reconstruction plans were ambitious, but economic constraints delayed the museum's completion until 1960. Sir Alfred Herbert's generous donations, totaling £200,000, were instrumental in bringing the project to fruition. The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum was officially opened on March 9, 1960, by Lady Herbert, Sir Alfred's third wife, marking the beginning of a new cultural era for Coventry.
In the early 2000s, the Herbert underwent a significant transformation. The first phase of refurbishment, completed in 2005, saw an investment of £3 million from Coventry City Council, Advantage West Midlands, and the European Regional Development Fund. One of the museum's most prized paintings, a large and fragile canvas by Luca Giordano, was carefully preserved during this period.
The second phase, completed in 2008 at a cost of £14 million, introduced a new entrance on Bayley Lane and a stunning 500-square-meter glass-covered court extension. The revamped facility now boasts a café, education and training spaces, creative media and arts information facilities, additional gallery spaces for temporary exhibitions, and state-of-the-art conservation facilities. This extensive refurbishment has transformed the Herbert into a modern, dynamic space that continues to attract visitors from near and far.
The Herbert's permanent gallery spaces offer a rich and varied experience for visitors. The Sculpture gallery showcases an impressive array of works, while the Old Masters paintings provide a glimpse into the artistic achievements of past centuries. The Art Since 1900 gallery highlights more contemporary pieces, reflecting the evolving nature of artistic expression.
One of the museum's standout features is the Godiva gallery, which delves into the legendary tale of Lady Godiva and her enduring legacy in Coventry. The Social and Industrial History gallery offers fascinating insights into the city's past, from its ribbon-making industry to its role in the automotive sector. The Elements gallery, dedicated to natural history, provides an engaging look at the natural world and its wonders.
The Herbert's costume collection is a highlight, featuring garments dating from around 1800 to the present day, with a particular focus on 19th-century women's wear. The museum is also actively acquiring modern clothes and items from Coventry's diverse ethnic communities, ensuring that its collection remains relevant and inclusive.
The ribbon-making collection is another gem, comprising over 250 sample books, woven Stevengraphs, dyer's samples, documents, woven badges, and related machinery. This collection offers a fascinating look at an industry that was once central to Coventry's economy.
In 2008, the Heritage Lottery Fund awarded nearly £200,000 to the Herbert and Wolverhampton Art Gallery for acquisitions related to the theme of peace and reconciliation. This funding has enabled the museum to expand its collection and explore important social themes.
The Herbert is renowned for its dynamic temporary exhibition program, which includes collaborations with national and international galleries such as the British Museum, V&A, Southbank Centre, and Natural History Museum. These exhibitions cover a wide range of themes, from local history to contemporary art, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to discover.
In 2009, the Herbert hosted a collection of fifty watercolours by British artists, including J. M. W. Turner and Dante Gabriel Rossetti. In 2010, the museum celebrated its fiftieth anniversary with a series of special events, including the display of ten significant objects that illustrated the history of Warwickshire.
More recently, in 2018, the Herbert hosted two major exhibitions: PLAY, created in collaboration with video game studio Rare, and ARTIST ROOMS: Anselm Kiefer, showcasing the work of one of Germany's most significant post-war artists. These exhibitions highlighted the museum's commitment to engaging and thought-provoking programming.
Housed within the Herbert, Coventry Archives is the largest repository of records related to the city's history. The collection includes the Charter of Incorporation of the City of Coventry and Coventry City Council records, offering invaluable insights into the city's past. In 2018, the archives were rebranded from the Coventry History Centre, reflecting their continued importance in preserving Coventry's heritage.
The Herbert Art Gallery and Museum is more than just a museum; it is a vibrant cultural institution that celebrates Coventry's rich history and diverse artistic heritage. With its engaging exhibitions, extensive collections, and dynamic programming, the Herbert offers something for everyone, making it an essential destination for visitors to Coventry.
Get your Tickets now!
With myCityHunt you can discover thousands of cities around the world in exciting scavenger hunts, treasure hunts and escape games!
myCityHunt vouchers are the perfect gift for many occasions! Surprise your friends and family with this extraordinary event gift. myCityHunt gift vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase and can be used within this period for a freely selectable city and tour from the myCityHunt portfolio.
Buy Gift Vouchers
