The Beacon Museum invites visitors to step into the world of John Dalzell Kenworthy, the celebrated West Cumbrian portrait artist whose work captured the character, resilience, and everyday life of his community.
JD Kenworthy - The West Cumbrian Portrait Artist is a new temporary exhibition in the Light and Dark Gallery, celebrating the life and work of renowned local artist and civic leader John Dalzell Kenworthy (1858–1954). Running from 14 February to 21 June 2026, the exhibition offers a rare opportunity to explore the people, stories, and social fabric of West Cumbria during the Edwardian era.
Kenworthy painted the people he knew and the community he loved. His portraits reveal a rich tapestry of local life, featuring Mayors of Whitehaven, soldiers, religious leaders, engineers, doctors, and domestic servants. Each face tells a story offering a glimpse into Edwardian West Cumbria and the ways the First World War shaped the lives of ordinary people.
Visitors will also be able to explore digital displays of Kenworthy’s sketchbooks, providing an intimate look at how he observed, experimented, and developed his ideas.
The exhibition also celebrates the next generation of portrait artists. Pupils at St James’ C of E Junior School have been exploring the art of portraiture in an exciting project inspired by the work of artist Kenworthy, with pieces ranging from textured cardboard self‑portraits to observational drawings and bold abstract designs. These lively pieces of art show that everyone can be a portrait artist, and that portraits are about capturing personality as well as appearance.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“Kenworthy’s portraits remind us of the people who helped shape Cumberland - neighbours, workers, leaders, and families. It’s inspiring to see today’s young people contributing their own artwork to this exhibition too, continuing the tradition of celebrating our community and the stories that connect us.”
Heather Holmes, Customer and Visitor Experience Manager added:
“This exhibition brings together portraits by J.D. Kenworthy from The Beacon Museum’s own collection, alongside images from his sketchbooks, kindly supplied by Cumbria Archive and Local Studies Centre, Whitehaven and digitised by The Beacon Museum.
“It also features portraits created by pupils from St James’ C of E Junior School, showing how Kenworthy’s work continues to inspire creativity in our community today.”
Whether you are discovering Kenworthy for the first time or reconnecting with familiar faces from the past, this exhibition is a chance to come together, celebrate local stories, and recognise the people who shaped West Cumbria across generations.