Newcastle’s The Cluny to host Pete McKee exhibition and show

Artist Pete McKee is bringing his exhibition The Boy with the Leg Named Brian to grassroots venues across the UK, including Newcastle’s Cluny.

The show will arrive in Newcastle on May 17, transforming the venue into a daytime gallery experience before a ticketed performance by The Everly Pregnant Brothers in the evening.

Pete McKee, artist and musician, said: “Music is a huge part of my life, and features constantly in my work.

“In fact, it was the original dream of mine to play on Top of The Pops rather than become an artist.

“We have picked some of the most amazing venues for this tour which have played host to some of the biggest artists before they were famous.

“Grassroots music venues like this are vital for bands like mine to perform to new audiences, so I can’t wait to play on with my band in these venues too.

“I love showcasing my artwork in non-traditional spaces too, so this is going to be a real celebration of art and music.”

The daytime exhibition, free and open from noon to 5pm, will feature interactive installations and a selection of Mr McKee’s work, offering visitors a new way to experience both the art and the venue.

The tour aims to celebrate and support independent music venues and will raise awareness of the work of the Music Venue Trust.

McKee’s exhibition, previously on display at Weston Park Museum in Sheffield, attracted more than 130,000 visitors during its year-long run.

It tells the story of his childhood growing up on a council estate in 1970s and 80s Sheffield—exploring themes of loss, identity, and the cultural influence of fashion and music.

Although deeply personal, the exhibition is intended to evoke collective memories and everyday experiences familiar to audiences across the UK.

As part of the tour, Mr McKee has created a special, limited-edition poster for each venue.

Only 50 will be produced, each signed by the artist, with all profits going to the Music Venue Trust and the participating venues.

The evening will conclude with a live show by The Everly Pregnant Brothers, the comedy ukulele band known for their parodies of well-known songs.

Mr McKee is a founding member of the band, which will perform songs from their latest album, Never Mind The Ukes, Here’s The Brothers.

Following a summer of performances at festivals including Tramlines and Rock N Roll Circus, the band is enthusiastic about playing in more intimate settings.

Mr McKee said: “Independent music venues like these are really important to me, not only are they where our band plays but it is also where I have seen countless artists over the years hone their craft.

“Music venues are closing down at a frightening rate across the country and it is important that we work hard to keep them alive.

“I can’t wait to bring my exhibition to your city and show my work in these beautiful and very different spaces from a gallery.”

Evening performances are ticketed, with doors opening at 7pm.

Full tour dates and venue information are available at www.petemckee.com.