‘Forged in Steam’, a new exhibition by Lancashire-based photographer Diane Muldowney, launched at Haworth Art Gallery in Accrington on 24 January.

Brought to life through the support of Community Rail Lancashire, this exhibition forms part of the national Railway 200 celebrations, marking 200 years since the birth of the modern passenger railway.

The exhibition, supported by artists Bess Holt, Andrew Nicholas and Ajaz Quershi, explores Britain’s railway heritage through the lens of labour, skill and collaboration. It also reflects on contemporary questions surrounding sustainability, fossil fuels and the future viability of heritage railways.

Photographer Diane Muldowney said: “The photography focuses not only on steam locomotives in motion, but on the people who keep them alive: crews, engineers and volunteers whose knowledge and craft are forged through heat, effort and time.”

“Steam railways survive because of people – their knowledge, physical labour, and willingness to pass skills on. I’m interested in what happens when we really look at that work, and what it means for the future.”

Mike Cliffe, chair of the East Lancashire Line CRP, said: “I’m delighted to see the artists’ work all come together here in Accrington to celebrate the ongoing legacy of 200 years of our railways. The lovely imagery brings to life just how the railway continues to impact on people and place”.

‘Forged in Steam’ is available to visit Wednesday to Sunday, 12-4pm, until 4 April. Entry to Haworth Art Gallery is free.

There will also be public family drop-in sessions on 21 and 22 February between 12:30-1:30pm and 2-3pm, where visitors can work alongside artists Gosha Gibek and Diane Muldowney in colouring a giant puzzle inspired by the pathway to the gallery, or being introduced to cyanotype and linocut printing through Diane’s amazing train photography.

Keep up to date with future news, projects and events from Community Rail Lancashire via their website.