A NEW exhibition has been launched at the Cooper Gallery which tells personal stories through blacksmithing and metalworking.

The exhibition, ‘Softening The Blow: Stories Told With Fire and Steel’, has been curated by Sam Sherborne - the winner of last year’s Cooper Prize.

The exhibition will showcase over 20 unique sculptures until March 29.

Coun Robin Franklin, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “It is great to welcome Sam Sherborne back to the Cooper Gallery.

“We are very fortunate to have such an extremely talented and an award-winning artist bring together an exhibition of outstanding and unique artwork right here in Barnsley.

“Across our venues, we want to deliver and showcase high-quality exhibitions, and this is no exception. Visitors will be able to explore an exciting array of steel sculptures that all tell a story about Sam’s own experiences and memories.”

Sam added: “I’m delighted to be coming back to the Cooper Gallery.

“Back in October 2023, I was pleasantly surprised to win the Cooper Prize, and it was great that people could see the value in my work.

“If there are words to describe my art, they would be ‘heavy,’ ‘meaningful’ and an ‘icon,’ as they help me show off my own experiences, memories and the inspirations that drive my work.”