Free event
About
Bright, colourful and immersive, Jason and the Coal Mining Adventure, on display at the National Coal Mining Museum, offers a joyful reimagining of Britain’s mining history and the communities at its heart.
At its centre is a world‑first tapestry by artist Jason Wilsher‑Mills MBE, created with the historic Flanders Tapestry studio and funded by Arts Council England. Inspired by stories gathered from former mining communities, the work blends traditional weaving with digital animation and audio drawn from interviews with mining families.
The tapestry is deeply personal to Jason, reflecting his own family’s mining history and memories of NUM banners and the Wakefield Miners’ Gala. Alongside it, you will encounter monumental inflatable sculptures and new film and animation created with Hot Knife Digital Media, bringing bold contemporary art into dialogue with the Museum’s mining collections.
The exhibition combines traditional craftsmanship with digital innovation. Powerful yet playful animated films, screened in the gallery and accessible via QR code, bring to life audio interviews with mining families who shared vivid memories of life above ground, from holidays and hobbies to the leisure activities that brought communities together.
Community collaboration has shaped the project, with Jason working closely with schools, disability groups, community organisations and former mining families.
Three disabled artists have also received micro‑commissions and mentorship, with exhibitions planned for 2026. To reach communities nationwide, three replica tapestries will tour nationally, visiting the Kent Mining Museum and the National Mining Museum Scotland.
Discover more about Jason’s exhibition via a digital exhibition on Bloomberg Connects
Venue opening hours
Monday : Closed
Tuesday : Closed
Wednesday : 9:45 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday : 9:45 am - 5:00 pm
Friday : 9:45 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday : 9:45 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday : 9:45 am - 5:00 pm
Access facilities
- Accessible Car Parking
- Accessible Toilet
- Assistance Dogs Welcome
- Baby Changing Facilities
- Step Free Access
- Wheelchair Accessible
Venue Details
Find us at
New Road, Wakefield, WF4 4RH
Phone
01924848806
info@ncm.org.uk