Discover the hidden histories of colours within our celebrated arts and crafts collections, see the first colours of spring in our stunning gardens and enjoy colourful artist-led interventions and activities across Harewood. 

The use of colours in arts and crafts is entwined with the history of civilisation and scientific discovery. This new exhibition explores the science of extracting pigments from nature across the globe, and the emotional and psychological significance of colours for wellbeing. 

Colours Uncovered throws fresh light onto our collection, revealing hidden histories through close examinations of the pigments used in their creation. From dazzling Renaissance masterpiece paintings from the 1500s to exquisite Sevres porcelain dating from the 1700s, the exhibition also features contemporary works by artists including Chris Day and Max Lamb.

Many of these works are rarely seen at Harewood, presenting an exhibition not to be missed.  The exhibition will be interpreted with new texts by a diverse range of people including horticulturalists, colour psychologists, and designers, to bring fresh perspectives onto our collection. 

Colours Uncovered will be accompanied by an exciting range of activities and events for all ages and abilities.

Accompanying the exhibition is Memory Garden, an installation of handwoven textile artworks by the American artist Cecilia Charlton, inspired by the colours of flowers found in British gardens.

The exhibition is designed by Instruct Studio and features colourful papers generously provided by G.F Smith.

Delve deeper into Colours Uncovered at one of our associated workshops, bookable in advance.

Colours Uncovered workshops 

Natural Dye Workshop: Silk Scarves
Sat 27 Apr|10.30am–4.30pm 

Mother Nature is always in fashion! Create beautiful scarves using the finest natural dyes with textile artist Kayleigh Davis.

Mosaic Plaque Workshop
Sat 1 Jun | 10:30am–4:30pm

Create your own indoor mosaic plaque with a range of exciting colours and materials!

Summer Botanical Watercolours
Sat 8 Jun | 10am–1pm

Explore watercolour techniques whilst creating beautiful and bold botanical paintings.