Bath Spa University’s Collections are more than repositories of objects and documents: they are living records of – and springboards for – creativity, education, and collaboration. From historical photographs to modern works of art and natural specimens, these Collections tell stories that connect disciplines, generations, and communities.

The Archive 

The BSU Archive was established in 2011 by Dr Roberta ‘Bobby’ Anderson, Senior Lecturer in History, to preserve and explore the institutional history of Bath Spa University. What began as a modest collection is now growing into a vital resource for understanding the University’s roots, shaped by the merging of three distinct colleges: the Bath Academy of Art, Bath College of Domestic Science, and Newton Park Training College.

The Art Collection 

The Art Collection comprises of prints, drawings, paintings, sculpture and ceramics by students, staff and visiting/associated artists, mostly from the Bath Academy of Art. This includes work by Walter Sickert, Adrian Heath, William Scott and Howard Hodgkin.   

The Collection also holds a range of historic prints by European artists including Hogarth, Whistler, Rembrandt, and Dürer, which originally formed part of the reference library for students at the Academy.   

A highlight is the 18th-century life-sized ‘lay figure’ or mannequin once owned by Sickert. This figure featured in the international touring exhibition Silent Partners (2014-15) and uniquely symbolises a blend of pedagogy and artistry that defines the Collection.

The Collection continues to evolve – most recently with the acquisition of a lithograph by Turner Prize winner and BSU alumna Veronica Ryan. 

A selection of artworks is available to view on Art UK; we aim to add to this over time.

We also plan to go through Accreditation, which will help with raising the profile of the Collections internally and externally, as well as protecting and preserving them, and allowing students higher quality experiences with a historically significant collection that is recognised for this and upholds (and is held to) best practice management.

The Natural History Collection

This eclectic collection of animal skeletons, minerals, fossils, and 19th-century microscope slides once served as a rich source of inspiration for art students at the Bath Academy of Art. It represents a unique intersection between science and creativity – minerals used as pigments, specimens drawn and studied for artistic experimentation, and natural forms used to train the observational eye.

Our Origins: Three Colleges, One University

Bath Spa University’s current identity is shaped by three historically distinct institutions, each reflecting broader social, educational, and cultural shifts in 19th- and 20th-century Britain.

Newton Park Training College

Founded in 1946 by educationalist Mary Dawson, Newton Park began as a post-war teacher training college for women. After an extensive renovation of the Georgian manor, the college was officially opened by HRH Princess Elizabeth in 1950. It began admitting male students in the 1960s.

The Bath Academy of Art

With roots dating back to 1852, the Bath Academy of Art is the oldest part of the University. After its original home in central Bath was destroyed during WWII, the Academy was re-established at Corsham Court in Wiltshire under the leadership of Clifford and Rosemary Ellis. The Academy was groundbreaking, for example blending artistic practice with teacher training and inviting a community of internationally significant artists into its experimental community.

Bath College of Domestic Science

Established in 1892 within Bath’s Guildhall, the Domestic Science College trained women in domestic and professional skills. By 1960, the College had its own purpose-built campus at Sion Hill, opened by the Queen Mother. With an early focus on international students, particularly from the Commonwealth, it laid the groundwork for BSU’s ongoing global outlook.

Our Future

These collections are not just about where we’ve been. They’re about what we do next. 

Whether you’re an educator, a student, museum professional, funder, or simply curious – this is your invitation to help us write the next chapter.

We’re opening up the collections for new interpretations, audiences and uses:

• Researchers exploring interdisciplinary themes
• Artists reworking historical materials
• Community partners co-curating stories
• Funders and policymakers supporting cultural access
• Educators seeking immersive learning opportunities
• We are open to all ideas and suggestions

For enquiries, ideas and appointments, please contact: collection@bathspa.ac.uk

 

Keep up to date

Follow the collection on Instagram: @bsucollections

Main image: Indifference, bronze sculpture by Simon Chadwick. Date unknown