‘The Magic of Middle-Earth’, a new exhibition that celebrates the fantasy worlds of J. R. R. Tolkien, has opened at the Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum.
The free exhibition is described as a “magical treasure trove” of more than 200 rare books, objects, and artworks.
It includes first edition copies of Tolkien’s books, as well as paintings of dragons, ents and elves. There are models and dioramas of the Battle Of Helms Deep, and Middle-earth-inspired video games and Lego sets.
The exhibition comes from collector Matt Fox, who previously broke visitor attendance records with his Star Wars-themed exhibition, ‘May The Toys Be With You’.
“I want to really transport visitors with this exhibition and allow those who enjoy immersing themselves in Middle-earth that indulgence,” Fox says
Orcs, elves, ents and dragons
“This is the first exhibition to bring together and make sense of Tolkien’s cultural legacy. For me, it’s a feast for the imagination and I’m really happy to be able to share it with others.”
The Magic of Middle-Earth is an unofficial exhibition. It was not created, approved or licensed by the estate of J. R. R. Tolkien, according to a statement from Fox.
In addition to the collection, guests can dress up as their favourite Tolkien characters, take selfies in the Hobbit chair, illustrate their own book covers and make magical models.
Tolkien-inspired characters such as orcs and elves have been seen around the gallery, and there will be Lord of the Rings-themed cocktails and fancy dress at an after-hours event on 15 July.
Tolkien was an English writer, poet, philologist, and academic. He is best known as the author of The Hobbit (1937) and The Lord of the Rings (1954).
The Magic of Middle-Earth is open to the public through 17 September.
Images: Matt Fox
