Readheads Dinnertime, 2017, Graham Hodgson (b. 1967), oil on board. South Shields Museum, England

Text from South Shields Local History Group

Al Newham commissioned this painting of shipyard workers exiting Readheads’ West Gate, painted by South Shields-born artist Graham Hodgson, whose own father had also worked at the famous West Docks yard.

Al explains: “I worked briefly on the bulk carrier Himmerland as an apprentice electrician while she was being fitted out in 1967. This painting shows a typical scene at ‘dinner time’ when there would be a dash across the road to the canteen for those who didn’t live nearby.

“All sub-contractors were made to wait outside the canteen by a formidable boiler-suited employee until all the Readhead & Sons lads were in. Conditions at that time were not so good as today: hard hats, ear defenders, suitable footwear and face masks were not regulation requirements.

“There was strict demarcation between the trades in the shipyard. As a sub-contractor, and in my ignorance, I went on board with a joiner’s brace hand tool. I must say I was told, in no uncertain terms, not to bring it on board again!”

Object description
Type: Easel painting
Location: South Shields Museum & Art Gallery, Tyne & Wear
Material: Oil on board
Artist: Graham Hodgson (b. 1967)
Date: 2017

Image details
Date: 15 June 2022
Camera body: iPhone Xs
Lens: Wide Camera 26mm ƒ/1.8
Focal Length: 26mm
Aperture: ƒ/1.8
Shutter Speed: 1/33s
ISO: 400
Licence: Image of a North East Museums asset. This image cannot be licensed.