Enjoy iconic artworks right on your doorstep thanks to new project
26 March 2026
People across Derry and Strabane will be able to experience some of the world’s most beloved paintings right in their own communities with the launch of The National Gallery: Art On Your Doorstep project next week.
Delivered in partnership with the National Gallery in London, Derry City and Strabane District Council has reproduced eighteen paintings from the Gallery’s collection at life size, bringing iconic artworks directly into outdoor public spaces across six locations in the district. Council’s Museum team has carefully selected a range of paintings that includes familiar masterpieces by artists such as Renoir and Van Gogh, alongside works that explore themes of nature, food and celebration.
Each painting is displayed within a life-size reproduction of its original frame, allowing viewers to experience the artworks up close and take in the fine details that make each piece unique.
The National Gallery has been bringing people and paintings together for more than 200 years. While its home in London remains free to visit, initiatives like Art On Your Doorstep extend the reach of the national collection, ensuring that more communities can enjoy these extraordinary works.
Members of the public are encouraged to follow the trail, scan the QR codes to learn more about the artworks, unlocking stories about the paintings and the artists who created them. The QR codes also provide access to The Keeper of Paintings and the Mischievous Masterpieces, a free interactive mobile game created with children to encourage younger audiences to engage with art in a fun and imaginative way.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District, Councillor Ruairí McHugh, said the trail would encourage curiosity and creativity. “We are delighted to partner with the National Gallery to bring Art On Your Doorstep to our district. This initiative makes world-class art accessible to everyone and encourages people to explore their local areas in a new way. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for residents and visitors alike to experience iconic works of art in an informal setting, and we hope the trail will create lasting memories and inspire creativity throughout the summer months.”
Head of Culture with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Aeidin McCarter, said. “Art has the power to spark imagination and conversation, and this project allows us to bring some of the world’s most celebrated paintings directly into our communities. By placing these life-size reproductions in accessible locations across the district, we hope people of all ages will pause, look closely and discover something new. We’re particularly excited about the interactive elements, which make the trail engaging for families and young people.”
The six sites to follow the art trail are the Tower Museum, Acorn Farm, St Columb’s Park House, NI Libraries Strabane, The Diamond Castlederg and alongside Newtownstewart Castle.
The exhibition trail will officially launch at the Tower Museum at 11am on March 31st, 2026, and all are welcome to attend. It will run until the end of September.