Discover fantastic beasts and folklore in new exhibitions
Published Monday, 27th January 2025People are invited to immerse themselves in the rich heritage and imaginative artistry connected with Hartlepool in two new exhibitions in the town.
‘Graham Vasey: Between Land and Sea – The History and Folklore of Hartlepool’ and ‘GreenPlume’ by Kim McDermottroe open together in Hartlepool Art Gallery in Church Square on Saturday 1st February and run until Saturday 29th March.
Renowned fine art photographer and filmmaker Graham Vasey presents a new body of work that delves into the hidden stories and enduring legends of Hartlepool.
Inspired by the wild corners of the North, Vasey’s work captures the atmosphere and essence of place, intertwining historical research with visual artistry.
The exhibition features Vasey’s evocative photography alongside objects and artworks from Hartlepool Borough Council’s collection, creating a dynamic dialogue between past and present.

Graham Vasey - ‘Limmitter’. In camera multiple exposure, liquid silver emulsion on watercolour paper
Graham Vasey said: “I'm delighted to be exhibiting my new body of work in Hartlepool.
“It is a town like no other, with such a rich history that I was spoilt for choice when choosing subjects and locations, and I hope my pictures do justice in reflecting the town‘s unique history and people.”
In ‘GreenPlume’, artist Kim McDermottroe, whose studio is in Hartlepool, brings her imagination to life.
As a creative director, illustrator and costume and puppet designer/maker, her varied portfolio showcases her passion for transforming the mundane into the extraordinary.
At the heart of the exhibition is Tobias GreenPlume, a magical owl who inspired a fantastical exploration of nature, mechanics and character.
Blending flora, fauna and man-made elements like cogs, McDermottroe’s intricate creations reimagine the natural world with a whimsical twist.
Her large-scale costumes, original works and limited-edition prints are displayed for the first time in Hartlepool.

Kim McDermottroe – Tobias GreenPlume
Kim McDermottroe said: “This collection of work began as a large scale costume design for Tobias GreenPlume the owl.
“I was thinking about designs and what happens to them after the costumes are made. I decided to fully render up the concept into an illustration and from there the collection has grown.
“It felt right to name the exhibition after the owl, and to exhibit it for the first time in the town where I studied and have my studio feels really special.”
Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: “Hartlepool Art Gallery has a proud track record of finding and hosting exceptional and unusual work and these two new exhibitions are no exception.
“Graham Vasey takes us on an intriguing visual journey through Hartlepool’s history and folklore, while Kim McDermottroe invites you to meet some truly magical and extraordinary creatures! So come and enjoy these fascinating exhibitions.”
Hartlepool Art Gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday 10am to 5pm and entry is FREE.
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