Shropshire has inspired and been home to generations of artist, craftsmen and writers over the years. Their work gives us an insight into how they perceived the area and both worked and interacted with it.
The decorative arts also reflect an aspect of industry within the County in particular the products of the potteries and foundries of Ironbridge Gorge and beyond. Recent acquisitions include the purchase of the Godden Collection of Caughley with assistance from the Art Fund.
Topographical paintings and prints are also a valuable visual record of the County especially prior to the invention of photography.The current collection consists mainly of paintings including of oils, water-colours and prints. Views of Shrewsbury, Ludlow and South Shropshire form the largest grouping. There are also small collections from Much Wenlock and Whitchurch. This material includes a notable collection of works by Randolph Caldecott.
Some of the items in our Fine and Decorative Art collection can be seen on display at Ludlow Museum, Much Wenlock Museum, Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery and Whitchurch Heritage Centre. Prints of some of our Ludlow paintings are available for sale from the Friends of Ludlow Museum at the Ludlow Museum giftshop.
To search our collection on-line please visit the BBC Your Painting website via the link below.