Winifred Nicholson

Cumbrian Rag Rugs

19 Jul – 16 Nov 2025

Main Gallery

An exhibition dedicated to artist Winifred Nicholson’s relationship with the tradition of rag rug making. Featuring a collection of artworks from the early to mid-20th century, the exhibition offers a unique insight into Winifred’s artistic collaborations and relationship to her home in Cumbria.

Best known for her luminous flower paintings, Winifred was an influential figure in British 20th-century art. Presenting a selection of rag rugs, many of which have never previously been shown in public, this exhibit

ion shines a light on an unknown aspect of her work.

The exhibition has been co-curated with art historian, Jovan Nicholson, grandson of Winifred Nicholson, and MIMA, Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art.

A rag rug showing a bright tiger in front of a blue stripey background.

Janet Heap

A textiles rag rug showing a dark brown cow in front of a light brown mountain range.

Mary Bewick