Discover Art

With the help of artist, Deborah Malcomson, we’ve transformed Discover Art into a place for visitors to draw, make, and play in response to the two Caravaggio paintings currently on display in Ulster Museum.

Discover Caravaggio will explore the theme of people sharing a meal while gathered around a table, drawing inspiration from the ‘The Supper at Emmaus’ (1601). It’s something that all ages can relate to – a universal experience. Children can create a 3D version of the table in our felt ‘supper party’ area where they can role play and dress up. They can also create a 2D version of the painting on our felt art wall – a playful, sensory place where families can engage with these incredible paintings. 

Examine still-life elements of ‘The Supper at Emmaus’ paintings and create your own versions. Make gestural drawings using poseable wooden hands to create shadow drawings. Think like Caravaggio and consider how light and shade can play a part in creative expression. 

Plus, you’ll see the winning artworks from our ‘Creative Classroom Award’ displayed in Discover Art!

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Caravaggio's (1571-1610) 'The Supper at Emmaus' (1601) is coming to Ulster Museum as part of bicentenary celebrations for the National Gallery, London, and in a first for Belfast, will be reunited with his ‘The Taking of Christ’ (1602) painting, especially for our National Treasures exhibition.

The 10th May 2024 marks 200 years since the opening of the National Gallery in London. To mark the momentous occasion, the National Gallery is loaning 'national treasures' from its collection to 12 museums and galleries throughout the UK - and Ulster Museum is one of the venues.

'The Supper at Emmaus' (1601) from the National Gallery and now 'The Taking of Christ’ (1602) from The Jesuit Community in Dublin, with the support of the National Gallery of Ireland, both painted by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio (1571–1610), will be displayed in our Spotlight Art gallery from 10th May until September 2024 in an exhibition spectacular.

Discovery Centres are open Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00. Please enquire on arrival as it may not always be possible to gain access to all or some of the centres during your visit.