In a major new commission at The Bowes Museum, acclaimed artist Pippa Hale has reimagined the museum’s renowned ceramic collection into a vibrant interactive experience for all ages.

Naturally, The Bowes Museum’s ceramic collection is rather fragile. Not so this exhibition. Pippa Hale’s fun show has been divided into three key sections including a playable sculpture section, a ceramic and community contribution display, and a creative space. In short: it’s a mini playground for curiosity, especially for children and families who to want see art from fresh, fun perspectives. Pet, play and personal connections lie at the heart of the show – and pets, of course, have often been a source of inspiration for artists, but perhaps never as exuberantly as Pippa Hale has used them here.

Pippa Hale: Pet Project, 26 July-1 March 2026, The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle, thebowesmuseum.org.uk