The ‘Croydon collection’ includes works by Michelangelo, Monet, Picasso, Renoir, Stubbs, Turner, Van Eyck, and many more. Highlights include Whistlejacket, The Bathers and Van Gogh’s Sunflowers.
Each painting will be true to size, allowing visitors to get up close to these iconic artworks and explore impressive brush strokes and hidden details all for free.
A map be available to download from www.culturecroydon.com or to collect from Croydon libraries. A family activity sheet will also be available from 3 February.
*One painting will be inside the Whitgift Shopping Centre and only accessible during opening hours
The Croydon Masterpiece
Alongside the exhibition, acclaimed British visual artist Rachel Gadsden, known internationally for her powerful, human‑centred work across the mainstream and disability arts sectors, will lead a series of free drop‑in workshops, for families and adults, during February half‑term.
Using materials from oil pastels to charcoal, participants of all ages can create their own artwork, which Gadsden will later assemble into a series of four large‑scale artworks titled the ‘Croydon Masterpiece’ celebrating the people, stories and spirit of the borough. The final work will go on public display in May 2026.
Workshop dates:
- Tuesday 17 February, 12pm–4pm — New Addington Library
- Wednesday 18 February, 12pm–4pm — Thornton Heath Library
- Friday 20 & Saturday 21 February, 12pm–4pm — Croydon Clocktower Atrium
Free, drop‑in, suitable for all ages and abilities.
Sip & Draw: Contribute to the Masterpiece
Sip & Draw also forms part of the creation of The Croydon Masterpiece. This relaxed evening session offers adults the opportunity to contribute their own artwork under gentle guidance, with drinks in hand and all materials provided. Participants can explore drawing techniques, experiment creatively and add their voice to the final collective piece.
The session is designed for both absolute beginners and seasoned doodlers where participants can unwind, experiment and enjoy a fun, low‑pressure art class – perfect for friends, colleagues or solo creatives keen to try something new.
- Monday 16 February, 6pm–8pm – Braithwaite Hall, Croydon Clocktower
- Tickets: £15 (includes drinks and nibbles). Ages 18+
- Advance booking: www.culturecroydon.com
Croydon Art Collection: Matching Masterpieces
Opening on 4 March, The Museum of Croydon will present a new exhibition drawn from its 2,000-strong Croydon Art Collection. The display brings together over 30 rarely seen works, including paintings, drawings, and mixed-media creations. From early 19th century classical artworks to modern masterpieces, these paintings have been selected to complement the themes and compositions displayed in Art On Your Doorstep.
Further Programme Highlights
An aligned programme of walks, talks, workshops and events will continue throughout the programme. In March, events to mark International Women’s Day will focus on female visual artists and include renowned arts, environment and social justice collaboration, Idle Women. A talks programme in April will more deeply explore some of the artworks and artists, including Hon Prof Sam Smiles exploring Turner and the Slave Trade. In May, Rousseau’s Surprised! inspires a celebration of South, Southeastern and Central Asian arts.
