Evening events at Conference 2023: The Power of Museums

We are delighted to announce our evening social events programme for Conference 2023: The Power of Museums in Newcastle-Gateshead. Over three nights, delegates will have the opportunity to explore some of the city’s most stunning cultural venues after hours.

Opening reception: Laing Art Gallery

1830-2030, Monday 6 November

Our conference programme kicks off with opening night reception at Laing Art Gallery. The gallery is home to an internationally important collection of art, focusing on British oil paintings, watercolours, ceramics, silver and glassware.

Our reception will take place in the beautiful Marble Hall, which is occupied by artworks by Henry Moore and Turner Prize nominee Paul Noble. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore Northern Spirit, the gallery’s major permanent exhibition celebrating the achievements of artists, manufacturers and makers from the North East of England. 

Main party: Great North Museum Hancock

1900-2100, Tuesday 7 November

Our main conference party will take place in the Great North Museum: Hancock, Newcastle’s museum of natural history, archaeology, geology and world cultures. After a day packed full of sessions and debate, you’ll have a chance to relax, mingle with friends and dance the night away.  

The party will be held in the Living Planet gallery of wildlife and habitats. You’ll also have the opportunity to explore other parts of museum, whose collections range from ornithology to Etruscan art and archaeology, as well as an extensive display on the history of Hadrian’s Wall.   

Closing party: Discovery Museum

1900-2030, Wednesday 8 November

Reflect on your conference experience and say one last goodbye to colleagues at our closing party at the Discovery Museum. Located a stone’s throw from Newcastle Station, the museum tells the history of Newcastle with a focus on its maritime, scientific and technological importance to Britain and the rest of the world.

See Turbinia, the 34-metre steam-powered ship that was once the fastest in the world and an iconic part of the history of Tyneside and explore the Newcastle Story gallery, which takes you on a journey through the city from the Roman times to the early millennium.