In a landmark development, the childhood home of Thomas Gainsborough (1727–1788), one of Britain’s most important artists , has been reimagined as an international centre for his work, and the largest gallery in Suffolk.
The ambitious transformation comprises a new three-storey building, as well as careful restoration of the Grade I-listed medieval, Georgian and Regency townhouse where he was born. Via a series of rooms and galleries, visitors can explore Gainsborough’s early life through family portraits and landscapes; learn about his love of music as a listener, performer and artist; and observe his greatest work in a special gallery lined with Sudbury silk damask.
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With views across Suffolk, the setting provides ‘a magical place for visitors to enjoy in the very landscape Gainsborough painted and grew up in, providing a special destination in this beautiful part of the country,’ says Eilish McGuinness, chief executive of The National Lottery Heritage Fund.