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Current Exhibitions

Discover the latest exhibitions and displays on show at the DMU Museum and Trinity Gallery.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Collections of DMU


Today, more than ever, the role of university collections is growing. From the digitisation of materials for global access to the advancement of diversity within provisions, collections are used to inspire creativity, widen inclusivity, and promote lifelong learning.

DMU's collections are eclectic and often full of surprises, with materials dating back to 1474. The following temporary exhibitions bring the materials from the storeroom into the spotlight and hope to encourage further conversations about the future of our collections.

You can read more about our exhibitions on our blog.

Temporary Exhibitions

Detail of Venetian Gondola Chair Italian, 18th century, Museum of Leathercraft Collection, Northampton ©DMU Museum
Samurai Archer Saddle Japanese, 17th century, Museum of Leathercraft Collection, Northampton ©DMU Museum
Folded Hand Fan French, 18th century, Museum of Leathercraft Collection, Northampton ©DMU Museum
3D printed detail, Olivia Bodak, Contour Fashion Innovation MA, ©Olivia Bodak
Dress detail from 'El Domingo' Collection, Ana Del Rio, Fashion Design BA (Hons), ©Ana Del Rio,
Detail of 'Puppets in the Club' Collection, Donghyeon Kim, Fashion Design BA, ©Donghyeon Kim

Artifacts Live: A Legacy in Leather

The story of leather spans millennia. It is one of the earliest materials used by humans and has influenced cultures around the world. Weathering endless societal changes, the role of leather has transitioned from protective clothing and tools into skilfully crafted and long-lasting artisanal pieces.

Preserving the collective history was one of the driving factors behind Artifacts Live a collaborative venture between DMU's School of Art and Design and the Museum of Leathercraft in Northampton. Another was to bridge the gap between traditional craft and modern innovation with sustainability at its core.

Six students from various courses were chosen to explore a new world of leather, using historic artifacts as their inspiration. The following exhibition invites you on their journey. Access the Exhibition Catalogue to see the historic objects and innovative student works on display.

Free Entry

19 January 2024 - 10 January 2025

Permanent Exhibitions

A 3D render of The Newarke

The Newarke: Discover the story of Leicester's heritage quarter

Learn about the medieval precinct with a rich history from its connection to the story of King Richard III and its role in the Civil War, to its changing facade during the industrial revolution, where orchards and gardens were replaced with factories and smoking chimneys.

DMU’s association with the Newarke dates back to 1897, when our predecessor the Leicester Municipal Technical and Art School was established. As the institution grew so did its occupancy of the site, sensitively converting the medieval buildings and factories alike into teaching and learning spaces for a 21st-century university

Free Entry

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