Museum’s new exhibition celebrates the nation’s hobbies

A new exhibition has launched at Derby Museums’ Museum of Making, which celebrates the creativity people bring to their spare time.

Hetain Patel’s ‘Come as You Really Are’ is a nationwide project presented by award-winning artist and Spider-Man enthusiast Hetain Patel and commissioned by arts organisation Artangel, in partnership with Derby Museums.

The exhibition, which runs until 22 March, aims to serve as a contemporary portrait of the UK as seen through the lens of the nation’s hobbies.

At the heart of the exhibition is a new film by Patel, blending high-end cinematic production with everyday scenes that highlight the joy and dedication found in pastimes often enjoyed quietly at home or with friends.

Visitors to the Museum of Making will recognise the model railway, which has a starring role in the film.

In January 2024, people from across the UK responded to a public call-out for information about their hobbies, with over 1,500 people sharing their personal stories of what these activities mean to them and why they pursue them with such dedication.

The diversity of hobbies submitted are showcased in the film, which features familiar pastimes such as arts and crafts, knitting, LEGO creations, Warhammer models, football shirt collecting, car modification and miniature model making, alongside lesser-known hobbies, including doll customisation, micro-ceramics, chainmail jewellery, making banjos, and firelighters handmade from citrus peels.

Hetain said: “There is a vulnerability in sharing something so personal, which often happens in private spaces around the responsibilities of daily life.

“But there is also a tremendous power in sharing collectively, which is at the heart of this project.

“I hope people join us in this celebration of the unstoppable nature of self-expression that is demonstrated by our hobbies.”

Janine Derbyshire, head of exhibitions and events at Derby Museums, said: “It is wonderful that the work of our incredible model railway volunteers is featured within Hetain Patel’s film, Come as You Really Are.

“It is a testament to the time and dedication that they, and all hobbyists, give to their specialist interests and passions.

“I think this project will really resonate with our visitors, encouraging them to share their hobbies and perhaps even pick up a new one.”

For more information about the Come as You Really Are exhibition, click here.