Head over Heels
6 March - 18 April
This is an exuberant exhibition celebrating contemporary headwear and footwear and showcasing an inspirational selection of the most creative designers in the UK today. The hats and shoes on display can be enjoyed as 3D objects in their own right.
The exhibition should excite the viewer to think: How is that made? What material is it? Is it a sculpture, is it art, how could you wear it?
These creations are not for the faint-hearted. They add drama to ceremonies and help us celebrate important moments in our lives. When we wear them, they make statements about who we are as individuals; they help us stand out from the crowd.
But has anyone thought much about how shoes or 
hats are made?
Do any of us understand the skill and craftsmanship that goes into producing them?
We are delighted to offer our audience a window into the creative minds of this country's best designers. During the exhibition we will have a selection of artists in residence, working in the gallery for all to see.
Don't miss your chance to watch a milliner make a hat before your very eyes.
See master craftspeople at work and understand for yourself the labour and love that goes into designing and making a hat. Maybe you will be inspired to commission something individual for that special occasion?
Milliners
Yasmin Rizvi
Shoemaker
Tracey Neuls
Artist Residencies in the gallery:
Sarah Cant Sat 6 - Wed 10 March
Sally-Ann Provan Mon 29 March - Thurs 1 April
Bridget Bailey Tues 6 - Sun 10 April
Visitors have said:
Fun - inspiring - delightful!
An exciting exhibition. I shall come again and drool over exotica!
Amazing! Great that we could try them on. I want to buy one!
Absolutely stunning - didn't want to leave!
Stunning - sculptural and amazingly creatie - wonderful exhibition!
Exhibition links:
History of Art Lecture with Laura Mellor
EW08 Portraits with Hats and Heels - Tuesday 16 March
See also our visit to The National Portrait Gallery, London.
Link Workshops
EW09 Felt Hats with Jamie Lewis - Weekend 10 and 11 April
EW10 Botanical Millinery with Bridget Bailey - Monday and Tuesday, 12 and 13 April
EW11 Beanies and Bootees with Liz Lancashire - Saturday 13 March
EW12 Fascinators with Tina Giuntini from Bea & Evie and Georgina Abbott from La Modiste Modeste - Saturday 17 April
EW13 Felt Slippers with Anne Rogers - Saturday 27 March
EW14 Slip-casting shoes with Russell Paige - Saturdays 13 and 20 March
Performance
TE03 Celtic storytelling and music with Claire Hamilton - Saturday 6 March
Friday Club
FE03 Kinky Boots - 26 March
