The Harris in Preston is an amazing building. When we visited at the weekend for an exhibition, I realised that I had never explored before. I have to say that I was totally blown away by the exhibition spaces, the reading room and the main central hall.
The design for the building reflects 19th century ideas and attitudes. The Victorians felt that if classical art and architecture were viewed by the public it would have an uplifting and moralising impact. Hibbert chose an imposing neo-classical design as being the most suitable for a library and museum. This is because its chief features were “simplicity, symmetry of plan, truthfulness of expression and refinement of detail”.
The exterior design of the building reflects Hibbert’s vision of a neo-classical museum and art gallery. The main feature of the front of the building is the pediment which houses the sculpture representing The School of Athens which was planned by Hibbert and sculptured by Edwin Roscoe Mullins and a number of griffins guarding the lamp of learning on the apex, which were modelled and carved by Roland Rhodes under the architect’s supervision.
The main feature of the interior of the building is the impressive central hall which rises through four storeys to over 120 feet to the lantern tower. Hibbert’s design included not only the fabric of the building but he also devised an overall scheme that comprised the interior decoration and the actual exhibits.
The mosaic floors and columns also reflect classical influences from Ancient Greece and Egypt. As part of the design Hibbert also obtained plaster copies of Classical and Renaissance sculpture to illustrate the “whole range and history of the world’s greatest achievements in art”.
The inscription on the outside of The Harris reads "the mental riches you may here acquire abide with you always".
The Harris shows us just how powerful Preston used to be, deserving of the epithet Proud Preston and such an important town in 19th century England.
What an absolutely amazing building, and such fantastic exhibition spaces. I think we'll have to visit again soon.
