A-level students collaborated with the National Trust and Ormesby Hall on an exciting new historical exhibition that explores and celebrates the relationship between founder Jim Pennyman and his wife, Ruth Pennyman. The students have created a dynamic display of artwork for the exciting new exhibition, which opened this spring and takes place in multiple rooms of Ormesby Hall.

“Ormesby Hall gave us the opportunity to learn about the fascinating love story of Ruth and Jim,” said A-level student Flora McGuiness. “We worked in groups to develop creative outcomes to explore the couple’s relationship and their interests.” Fellow student Ellanor Fisher reflected, “We were able to tell their story in our own uncensored way.”

The brief set out by the National Trust and Ormesby Hall is centred on the phrase “opposites attract”, which could be used to describe the relationship between Ruth and Jim Pennyman. Ruth, described as creative, artistic, socially radical and culturally engaged, paired with Jim, thought to be managerial, practical, civic-minded and reserved. As the brief outlines, ‘though distinct in character, they complemented one another in ways that not only enriched their own lives but also deeply impacted those around them, from close friends to the wider community. Their shared passions and individual curiosities are beautifully reflected in the eclectic collection of books in the Ormesby Hall library.’

Visitors to the hall can expect to see a showcase featuring photography, ceramics, textiles and painting. The library space is dedicated to hosting students’ photography and ceramics work, which is directly inspired by the stories of the Pennyman family and their life at Ormesby Hall.

The students have overlaid images that are reminiscent of the building — from close-ups of textile designs that feature in the rooms at Ormesby Hall to excerpts from diaries from the collection — culminating in diverse and striking imagery. The laundry room will showcase original printed panels created by students and inspired by different themes prevalent in Ormesby Hall’s rich history. Each piece has been created collaboratively using a number of mediums and skills, resulting in a range of unique pieces.

Lecturer Katie Wood said, “Working with the National Trust has been a truly inspiring opportunity for our students to connect with the rich heritage of our local area. Entrusted with the personal stories of Ruth and Jim, we were challenged to bring these narratives to life through creative exploration. As their first major project of the year, it asked them to quickly develop both artistic and transferable skills, something they rose to brilliantly.”

“The students have produced an exciting range of outcomes, including designs, photographic prints and ceramics, all of which will be displayed in the library and the laundry room. We’re incredibly proud of their dedication, imagination and the professionalism they have shown throughout. Everything they have learned during this project will support not only their progression on the course but also their future creative careers.”

Reflecting on the brief, student Izzy Palmer commented, “It was a good experience to work with the National Trust and receive such positive feedback from them about our artwork.”

Speaking of working with the students, Visitor Experience Officer Leanne said, “We are excited to be collaborating with the students and teachers at the Northern School of Art College in Middlesbrough to bring their new artwork to go on display in the historic house at Ormesby Hall in 2026. I enjoy seeing how the students have interpreted the stories of Jim and Ruth Pennyman, the last residents of Ormesby Hall, and what they found relevant to them, and how that inspired them to create their artwork.”

Find out times and details of the exhibition here! At The Northern School of Art, we offer a range of college-level creative pathways including A-levels in Art & Design, History of Art, Photography and English Language. Find out about our college level pathways here.