Hull is set to welcome William Dobson’s Self‑Portrait (c.1635 - 40) as part of a national tour led by Tate and the National Portrait Gallery. The 17th century masterpiece, jointly acquired in 2025, will travel to just two venues - with Ferens Art Gallery proudly hosting its first stop outside London.
The portrait will be on display at Ferens from 31 January to 23 May 2027, marking the beginning of the Gallery’s centenary year. Its arrival highlights Hull’s pivotal role in the early stages of the English Civil War, when the 1642 siege became a defining moment in the conflict between King Charles I and Parliament.
As part of the exhibition Art Uprising!, young people from The Warren Youth Project will collaborate with a musician to create new sound based responses inspired by Hull’s Civil War history. Their work will sit alongside the painting, offering visitors a contemporary way to experience Dobson’s story.
The tour is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Bjorn Saven CBE, the David and Emma Verey Charitable Trust and the Tavolozza Foundation.