Exhibitions

Gallery Oldham has three large exhibition spaces plus a community gallery, Gallery 4.

We take an innovative and unique approach to exhibition programming, bringing together what were once separate museum and gallery services.

Our programming incorporates Oldham’s extensive art, social and natural history collections alongside touring work, newly commissioned and contemporary art, international art and work produced with local communities.

In addition we have permanent displays around the building.

Current Exhibitions

Gallery 1 – Oldham Stories

Oldham Stories features selected objects from our extensive collections to tell and show the stories of Oldham and its local and natural communities.

From mountain hare and moorhens to banners and artwork, every object has a fascinating tale to tell. Our Collector’s Case features an array of caps, shirts and memorabilia from Oldham Rugby Football League.

The display also highlights local figures such as campaigner Marjory Lees and the popular artist Helen Bradley, as well as Sir Winston Churchill who started his political career right here in Oldham.

If you want to know more about Oldham’s unique range of wildlife habitats, you’ll find it here.

Gallery 2 – Indian Perspectives by Tony Phillips and Jasmir Creed

27 September – 3 January

Indian Perspectives examines the legacies of British colonial rule of India and the experiences of people of Indian heritage living in Britain. It features more than 100 drawings and paintings.

Liverpool-born artist Tony Phillips uses his characteristic socially engaged drawings to look at the impact British colonial rule had on India and its people. He explores the cross-fertilisation of cultures ensuing from post-Independence Indian migration to Britain. Meanwhile, Jasmir Creed’s oil paintings draw on her Anglo-Indian heritage to create large colourful paintings reflecting on issues around identity.

Gallery 3 – Pick and Mix

10 May – 18 October

Our latest Family Friendly exhibition is created by and for children and families of all ages. Inspired by visual elements including line, shape, colour and form this exhibition showcases the work of local children and teenagers inspired by famous artists such as Bridget Riley and Lubaina Himid.

Coming Soon

Connecting Threads 2, by Lynn Setterington

8 November 2025 – 7 March 2026

Lynn Setterington is an ethnographic embroiderer who engages with the world through stitch. Lynn has worked with communities worldwide and she combines popular culture, folk art and the everyday to make extraordinary artworks that celebrate what it means to be human.

Women Portraits: Trades and Professions by Charlotte Hodes

17 January – 9 May 2026

This exhibition, by artist Charlotte Hodes, is engaged with the representation of trades and professions. It focuses on the contributions made by women from the Oldham and Manchester regions from the late 1800s, a period of increasing demand for equal rights for women, through to the present day.