International illustrator draws largest exhibition to West Suffolk museum

04 Mar 2024

The largest exhibition is now underway at Moyse’s Hall Museum, featuring the work of internationally acclaimed illustrator David Hughes.

In a profound and broad career, David Hughes has produced illustrations and caricatures commissioned by The Washington Post, The Times, Rolling Stone, Playboy, Faber & Faber, Esquire USA, BBC, Channel 4, GQ, Punch, the New Scientist and many more. 

Now he has worked with West Suffolk Council to co-curate his exhibition ‘Why Can’t You Draw Something Nice…?” which explores his book, newspaper, and magazine illustrations, as well as design for television, film, and operatic productions. The exhibition in Bury St Edmunds also shares his pandemic journals and sculptures – works created as a reaction to the once in a generational event that brought life to a standstill. 

“I’ve never been so engaged, it’s official, I’m a specimen in a museum. I’m a dinosaur,” David said.

With nearly 200 pieces – some of which have never been on display before - it is the largest exhibition in Moyse’s 125-year history as a museum.

Moyse’s Hall is run by West Suffolk Council whose new strategic priority for thriving communities includes supporting residents’ mental health and wellbeing through cultural activities. The Apex and the Abbey Gardens, the museum also attracts people to the town centre supporting businesses and with it the council’s strategic priority for sustainable growth and adding to West Suffolk’s appeal as a place where people want to live and work.

Cllr Ian Shipp, Cabinet Member for Leisure and Culture at West Suffolk Council which runs Moyse’s Hall Museum, said: “This is an exciting exhibition bringing the stunning works of an internationally acclaimed artist to West Suffolk for our communities and visitors to come along and enjoy. One of the things that makes West Suffolk such a great place to live and work is our strong mix of leisure, culture and heritage. With such a huge array of work, some of which has never been on display before, this exhibition is not to be missed.”

The David Hughes: ‘Why Can’t You Draw Something Nice…?’ is open to the public seven days a week and runs until Sunday 12 May. Tickets are available on the Moyse's Hall Museum website or by calling 01284 758000.  Tickets can also be purchased on entry.

---