Photographic Exhibition Celebrates the People Who Bring Dorset to Life ‘Dorset People: From the Swanage Railway to the Tolpuddle Rally’ Opens This Summer

A new photographic exhibition, Dorset People: From the Swanage Railway to the Tolpuddle Rally, opens this summer, offering an intimate and compelling collection of portraits of the individuals who shape life across the county.

From steam train engineers and seaside stallholders to festivalgoers, farm workers, and passionate campaigners, the exhibition captures the spirit, diversity, and quiet dignity of Dorset’s communities. Curated by John Tilsley and other members of the Dorchester Camera Club, each image invites viewers to look beyond the postcard-perfect scenery and discover the real Dorset—alive with stories of tradition, labour, protest, and joy.

“This collection is a celebration of the people who make Dorset what it is,” said Virginia Smith, Museum Director. “Their faces and lives tell a story that spans coastlines and countryside, history and modern life.”

Whether it’s the quiet pride of a heritage railway volunteer, the vibrant energy of a local festival, or the determination of social justice campaigners, Dorset People presents a living narrative of the county through striking, candid photography.

Check out www.shirehalldorset.org and our social media channels for up-to-date news and information on the exhibition and the additional programme of events and activities to be announced. The exhibition runs from August 8th until September 30th 2025