Lawrence’s life retold through paintings at new exhibition

Shaped by local knowledge, from local artists, and a strong sense of place – the exhibition celebrates the life and works of D.H. Lawrence, portraying key locations, stories passed down from generations, and people close to the author.

Initially inspired by the anniversary of the Moorgreen Colliery closure, the exhibition expanded to incorporate some of Lawrence’s wider excursions across Europe and North America.

Brinsley and District Art Group Organisers, Reginald Lemon and Audrey Measures, said, “Brinsley and District Art Group started meeting at Brinsley Parish Hall in 2000. We hold an annual exhibition at Eastwood Library. In 2025, as it was the 40th Anniversary of the closure of Moorgreen Colliery, we decided to base our exhibition around D.H. Lawrence, whose early novels featured the mining heritage in this area. 

"Our chairman, Reg Lemon, had visited the Hotel La Fonda in Taos, New Mexico, where some of Lawrence’s paintings are on display. This prompted us to widen the scope of our exhibition to depict aspects of all of Lawrence’s life, which are not so well known. 

"Our friendly art group meet regularly at Brinsley Parish Hall and new members are made very welcome. Please contact Angie on 07505 000715 for more details.”

Museum and Collections Officer, Carolyn Melbourne, said, “This exhibition, which the group previously displayed at Eastwood Library, is such a perfect fit for the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum that it is only logical that it should be displayed here. This collection of paintings of local talent immerses the viewer in Lawrence’s world in a vivid way and it demonstrates how the area is keeping Lawrence’s legacy alive.”

The exhibition will be available to view in the museum gallery from Thursday 23 April – Saturday 13 June.

The D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum is where the literary legend was born on 11 September 1885. Only 30 minutes from Nottingham city centre, the museum is a must see for fans of literature, and for those wanting to delve deeper into Nottingham’s literary heritage.

Step back in time to experience the traditional Victorian wash house, see the parlour; a room only for special guests, and have a wander around the parental and other bedrooms. The museum’s permanent exhibition features items from Lawrence’s family and even paintings created by the author himself.

Find out more about what’s on and plan your visit on the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum webpage.