Visitors to Bankfield Museum, Halifax are in for a ferociously good time, as a new family exhibition exploring fearsome, fiery and friendly dragons through the ages (in all their shapes and sizes) opens on Saturday 24 January.
This free exhibition features original artworks by local illustrator and author Chris Mould. Following his successful ‘Pirates!’ exhibition last year, (now on display at Smith Art Gallery, Brighouse), Chris returns to Bankfield with his book ‘Fangs ‘n’ Fire’.
Chris Mould said:
“Don’t search too hard for the Dragon! However hard you look, he will only appear when he wants to. But once in a while, he may pass your way.
“Don’t expect the ferocious beast you’ve heard of. He may be still and silent, or appear unnoticed in a cloud of smoke or flames of fire. Perhaps he’s small and scuttles, rat-like, out of sight before you spot him. Who knows?”
Challenge yourself to complete our Dragon Quest and bravely enter the dragon’s lair. Discover dragons through history and from around the world with displays of objects from the museum’s collection.
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities, Cllr Marcus Thompson, said:
“This exhibition is sure to entertain and excite children of all ages, and I’m sure a lot of adults too! The Pirates exhibition was a great success, and with illustrations from the same artist, I’m sure that Dragons will prove to be just as popular.”
Join us on the opening day of the exhibition, Saturday 24 January, for free family activities and the chance to meet Chris Mould, who will be signing copies of his book ‘Fangs ‘n’ Fire’ from 2pm – 3.30pm.
There’s also the chance to take part in a Draw Your Dragon workshop with Chris on Saturday 14 March to create your own fiery friend or foe.
On the Saturday 25 April, celebrate the legend of Saint George with Gruff the storyteller and an interactive story adventure. Make dragon masks and Knight’s armour, and listen out for the arrival of Saint George and his horse outside the museum at 2.30pm.
During Half Term and Easter Holidays there will be a range of activities and crafts. Visit museums.calderdale.gov.uk for details of events and booking.
Bankfield Museum is open from 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday. The free Dragons exhibition opens on Saturday 24 January and continues until Saturday 25 April.