Ferens Art Gallery has gained a new principal sponsor to support a fantastic 2018/19 exhibition programme.

Local company Kingstown Works Ltd (KWL) will become the first ever principal sponsor of the Ferens exhibition programme, meaning it will continue to host the best of national and international exhibitions, following a record-breaking 2017.

This high profile sponsorship of the Ferens is just one of the initiatives the business undertakes each year to help support the local economy and community.

Speaking about the sponsorship Rob Morley, KWL Business Leader said: “KWL is passionate about Hull and to sponsor Ferens Art Gallery will build upon our involvement as a Principal Partner for the Hull 2017 City of Culture.

“Ferens Art Gallery is the jewel in the city’s crown and it is an honour to be able to support this year’s programme of events.

“The exhibitions for 2018/19 will bring high profile artists to the city, which will be made possible by our partnership with Hull Culture and Leisure.”

Councillor Terry Geraghty, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Leisure and Chair of Hull Culture and Leisure Limited, said: “This is great news for the Ferens and shows the growing support for the gallery as it continues to be a flagship venue for Hull’s cultural offerings.

“I would like to thank KWL for their support, it’s fantastic to have such a loyal local business on board and know they will offer a valuable contribution to this year’s exhibitions.”

Kirsten Simister, Curator of Ferens Art Gallery: “I’m delighted the gallery has gained a major sponsor that means we can continue to deliver our important national partnerships and bring in bigger and better exhibitions throughout the year.

“We have a great programme lined up that I am confident we will continue to draw in both existing and new audiences following Hull’s amazing year as UK City of Culture 2017.”

The sponsorship will run from 1 April until 31 March 2019 and is worth £50,000 to the Ferens.