A black and white portrait of an older white man smiling wearing glasses and a Guinness bucket hat.

Club Culture Cumbria: Portraits by Colin Potsig

Exhibitions
Gift Vouchers
Prices
Free
Age Guidance
Suitable for all ages
Exhibition Times
Monday - Friday, 11:00-15:00
Note
Access may vary to accommodate other events; we recommend calling before your visit to confirm

These witty and poignant portraits of current working men's and social club members give a glimpse into spaces of warmth and community which are dying off by the month - but might be needed more than ever.

Club Culture Cumbria is a continuation of the Club Culture project that Potsig began in Northumberland in 2023. Captured across ten clubs in Cumbria in 2025, they show us regulars and retirees, choristers and bingo players.

A free newspaper featuring work from the show, along with a selection of other photographs captured during the project, accompanies the exhibition and is available for visitors to take home.

"Over this project, I've gained a small insight into these communities. I've listened to their stories, their highs and lows. If the portraits spark your interest, why not call into your local club and experience what the staff and patrons have to offer? A warm welcome and a cold pint await."

- Colin Potsig

Join Colin and the Rosehill team on Tuesday 30 September, 18:30-20:30, as part of our new Art Social meet-ups for artists and other creative practitioners. More info >


The exhibition will be on display at Rosehill, Whitehaven, before transferring to The Carnegie, Workington. See websites for opening times.

Rosehill Tuesday 16 September – Wednesday 22 October 2025
Carnegie Saturday 01 November – Thursday 04 December 2025

Andrew 16x12
Joan 16x12

Images: Kelvin (main), Andrew, Joan (above).


About the artist

Colin Potsig is a photographic artist based in Allendale, Northumberland, specialising in portraits and documentary photography with a particular interest in marginalised people and places. Previous Arts Council England-funded projects include the 'You, me and autism' and 'You, me and autism too' series, which were exhibited nationally.

colinpotsig.co.uk

Our funders.

Reviews

Gary Baker - 2025-03-15

A very nicely run small local theatre

Dave Wilson - 2025-03-02

Everything about it is great, especially the staff who could not be more helpful.

Joyce Lyu - 2025-01-25

Lovely place.

Stephanie Court - 2024-12-15

First visit. What a gorgeous jewel in the Cumbrian arts scene. Looking forward to going again soon

Tracey Collier-White - 2024-10-12

Brilliant show. Lovely quaint theatre. First time visit will be looking to go again.

Tim Singleton - 2024-05-08

First time in this place.Had an enjoyable evening watching a tribute band. Friendly atmosphere, Staff excellent. And a very nice venue.

Peter Hinde - 2023-07-06

Superb venue, clean, and the theatre is beautiful. Saw a film for the first time last night, sound and picture were awesome. Highly recommended.