Rare Betty Miller sculpture exhibition opens at National Coal Mining Museum for first time in 20 years

A major new art exhibition celebrating the centenary of Yorkshire-born sculptor Betty Miller is opening at the National Coal Mining Museum this week, bringing one of the region’s most significant sculptural works back into the public eye.

Opening on Friday (October 23), ‘Villagers’ brings together Miller's celebrated work ‘My Village’ in its entirety for the first time in over 20 years.

The exhibition also features brand-new contemporary artworks created by artist duo Lenny & Whale, alongside pieces produced by local school and community groups across Wakefield and Barnsley who reimagined Miller’s world through a modern lens.

At the heart of the centenary showcase is ‘My Village,’ Miller's detailed collection of 32 bronze sculptures that vividly depict daily life in the South Yorkshire coalfield community of Royston, where she grew up.

Inspired by pioneering female sculptors like Barbara Hepworth, Miller built an acclaimed career across the UK and Australia as a sculptor, ceramist, and educator.

Her bronze figures offer a rich snapshot of mid-century mining life, capturing the character, resilience, and daily routines of residents.

The exhibition is the culmination of ‘Sculpting the Community,’ an ambitious project led by the museum with support from Arts Council England and National Lottery funding to engage mining communities with heritage and visual arts.

Modern reimagining's & community art

Alongside Miller’s historic bronzes, visitors will encounter vibrant new creations by artists Lenny & Whale, made from ceramics, repurposed wood, cardboard, and striking 2D and 3D drawings.

Following months of research and observations in Royston, the artists worked with local schools and community groups to explore identity, personal stories, and village life today, bridging the gap between past and present generations.

Lynn Dunning, CEO of the National Coal Mining Museum for England, said: “Sculpture is an important part of Wakefield’s identity and to showcase the incredible work of Betty, a Yorkshire artist, is a real honour for the Museum.

“We have a stunning collection of artwork, including sculpture in our collections, and for ‘My Village’ to be seen for the first time in twenty years is very special. The detail and skill in the work really is something to be seen.”

Following its initial run at the National Coal Mining Museum near Wakefield, the ‘Villagers’ exhibition will embark on a regional tour, with planned stops at Royston Library and the Mining Art Gallery in Bishop Auckland.

Experience Betty Miller’s remarkable Villagers exhibition for free when it opens at the National Coal Mining Museum on October 23.