In anticipation of the opening of The Hepworth Wakefield in May, the New Art Centre has organised two complementary exhibitions which will focus on the sculpture of Barbara Hepworth and the importance of her legacy.

The Hepworth Wakefield: A Celebration
The Hepworth Wakefield has already been acknowledged as one the most significant new buildings in the country, and promises to be a wonderful setting in which to appreciate the work of Barbara Hepworth as well as a programme of international contemporary art. The Hepworth Wakefield: A Celebration comprises models and photographs shown in the Gallery, which will illustrate the extraordinary beauty and superb functionality of the building. The models include one example carved in limestone that will also convey the great sculptural quality of Sir David Chipperfield’s design.

Backbone: A Selection of Modern British Sculpture
At the same time in the Artists’ House, the sculpture of Barbara Hepworth will feature in an exhibition alongside examples by her peers and those by artists from successive generations. Backbone will include key works by Kenneth Armitage, Clive Barker, Reg Butler, Hubert Dalwood, Richard Deacon, Barry Flanagan, Des Hughes, Phillip King, Tanja Kovats, Eva Rothschild, Jane Simpson, Gavin Turk, Alison Wilding and Bill Woodrow amongst others, as well as major examples by Hepworth herself.

The New Art Centre is the sole representative of the Trustees of the Estate of Barbara Hepworth. In the Sculpture Park we always have a number of substantial sculptures by Hepworth, which at present include ‘Hollow Form with Inner Form’, 1968 and ‘Torso II (Torcello)’, 1958, and ‘Epidauros II’, 1961. A number of smaller sculptures, drawings and prints are also on display in the Artists’ House.

For further information about the exhibition and for images, please contact Stephen Feeke or Sarah Rancans on 01980 862244 or nac@sculpture.uk.com.