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A colourful celebration of one of Plymouth’s most beloved artists is now in full swing as Beryl Cook: Pride and Joy lights up the award‑winning The Box Plymouth. From bold brushstrokes to joyous characters, the city is buzzing with Beryl‑inspired exhibitions, installations, and events running through spring.
The Exhibition
Now open until Sunday 31 May, Beryl Cook: Pride and Joy brings together more than 80 of Cook’s most iconic works — from pub banter and cabaret nights to the quiet humour of daily life. Visitors will discover favourites and rarely seen pieces, many on loan from private collections and the Cook family archive.
The exhibition unfolds across four themed sections — Identity and Representation, Chronicles of Everyday Life, Process and Practice (including sculpture and textiles), and Influences and Impact. Together, they celebrate Cook’s warmth, wit, and her extraordinary ability to capture working-class joy and human connection.
A complementary display in The Box’s Active Archives Gallery offers a deeper look into Cook’s creative journey and the people who inspired her.
Tickets
Entry to The Box and this exhibition is completely free, but due to high demand, a ticketing system is in place to ensure everyone enjoys the exhibition comfortably.
You can reserve your free timed tickets via The Box’s website or pick them up onsite. Walk-ins are welcome, though booking is recommended on weekends. From 17 February, tickets also include entry to the complementary exhibition, Journeys with Mai.
The Tours
As part of the celebration, The Box is hosting a series of special tours that bring Beryl’s world to life from every angle:
Curator’s Tours
Go behind the scenes with The Box team to explore Beryl’s inspirations, artistic process, and cultural impact. Perfect for fans keen to understand her creative lens.
Beryl Cook Comedy Tour with Suzy Bennett
Step into Cook’s Plymouth on a laughter-filled walking tour led by local comedian Suzy Bennett, blending Cook’s humour, city heritage, and unforgettable characters.
Spaces are limited, so booking in advance is recommended.
Beryl-inspired statues across Plymouth
Throughout the exhibition’s run, keep an eye out for four life‑size Beryl Cook‑inspired statues dotted throughout Plymouth, turning the city itself into a living gallery.
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Sailors and Seagulls (c.1970) – Grab a selfie with one of Beryl’s cheerful sailors outside The Dolphin Inn on the Barbican.
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Plymouth Market (1978) – Spot a bowler‑hatted shopper inside Plymouth Market, a tribute to Cook’s love of everyday hustle and bustle.
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Sabotage (1975) – Find the bowls player poised for action at the Peace Garden on The Hoe.
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Tom Dancing (1976) – Discover Ruby Venezuela (aka Brian Pearce) on Old George Street, near the former Lockyer Tavern, in a joyful nod to Plymouth’s LGBTQ+ history.
Find out more about the Beryl Cook Sculptures in Plymouth.
Family Fun: Do What Makes You Happy
This February half term, The Box's drop-in arts and crafts sessions are inspired by the major 'Beryl Cook: Pride and Joy' exhibition, humour, people and pets. Open from Tuesday 17 to Friday 20 February.
Drag Bingo
Join host Everly After for this fabulous Drag Bingo event inspired by artist Beryl Cook. Tickets include everything you need for a fun filled night and Beryl merchandise prizes will be up for grabs. Book your tickets quick for the event on Saturday 2 May!
Discord & Harmony at KARST
Meanwhile, Discord & Harmony at KARST offers a fresh take on Beryl’s enduring legacy. Showcasing contemporary British artists, the exhibition explores community, individuality, body image, and queer visibility through painting, sculpture, and video — echoing Cook’s life‑affirming vision of ordinary joys.
Beryl Cook Merchandise
Don’t leave empty‑handed! Browse a range of Beryl Cook‑themed gifts, including a beautifully illustrated book, prints, and other exclusive keepsakes, available from The Box Shop.
Plan Your Visit
Entry to The Box and all exhibitions is free, and the museum is open 10am–5pm, Tuesday to Sunday and Bank Holidays. Accessibility is excellent, with step‑free access, lifts, hearing loops, and accessible restrooms.
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In partnership with GWR, Destination Plymouth’s lead travel partner.
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