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Durham Big Meeting

Tom McGuinness' colourful depiction of Durham Miners' Gala was the first painting acquired for the Gemini Collection.

Robert McManners and Gillian Wales, founders of the Gemini Collection of mining art, purchased this large painting in 1997. After getting it home, they asked artist Tom McGuinness to undertake some restoration work. To their surprise, Tom painted them both into the scene. 

The accompanying photograph shows Gillian Wales, Tom McGuinness and Robert McManners holding the painting.

Gemini Collection

Artist Tom McGuinness

Year 1968

MediumOil on board

Inspiration

Image courtesy of The Northern Echo

Durham Big Meeting : Memories

  • I was only a girl of 8 when I was taken to the miners gala by my grand dad . He was a miner who went down the pit when he was 14 until he retired after 52 years.
    My memory was of a fun day out with me being bought a policeman's helmet from a small stall.
    I only wish I knew more about about my granddads working life but I was too young to realise how hard it was.

    Lesley