The paintings and painted banners of the People’s History Museum uniquely depict ‘history from below’ as well as aspects of the growth of democracy in Britain. They play a large part in making the museum unique in the UK. There are over 165 paintings in oil and acrylic in the collections, and we hold the major part of the works of Cliff Rowe, the paintings alone numbering well over 400. In addition, we hold many banners with fine painted emblems in oils.

The museum began in London in 1975, in Limehouse Town Hall, and in 1988 the collection was transferred to Manchester, and a new organization set up. The collections have grown considerably since then. Artworks and objects are constantly being donated.

Highlights of works include A. J. Waudby’s large painted emblem for the Operative Bricklayers’ Society, the Shoemakers’ Great Reform Act banner, and the Sunderland Employers’ Nine Hours campaign banner. Other ‘star’ works include a portrait of Arthur Henderson, portraits of 1945 Labour government figures, including Bevan, and many paintings by Cliff Rowe of male and female workers.

Please note, these paintings represent approximately one-third of the People’s History Museum.