Last chance to grab a cuppa at Derry museum tea tribute exhibition

There are just a few weeks left to celebrate all things tea related at a unique exhibition exploring the heritage of tea in Northern Ireland, currently on show at the Tower Museum in Derry.
By Daire Ní Chanáin
Published 6th Jun 2023, 15:31 BST
Updated 6th Jun 2023, 15:31 BST
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You, Me and Tea, which runs until June 18th, is a quirky social heritage project developed by Artsekta, exploring the local connections with China and India, and how tea first made its way to the country.

As well shining a light on a fascinating story, the exhibition has created an important forum bringing different communities together. Participants, artists and volunteers have come together over a cuppa to discuss all things tea related including, the origins and history of tea, connections with China and India, the journey of tea to Northern Ireland, and past and present tea merchants.

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The project has been working with several community groups across the North with an accompanying engagement programme of talks and workshops for visitors.

Some of the exhibition pieces on display at the ‘You, Me and Tea’ exhibition at the Tower Museum, Derry.Some of the exhibition pieces on display at the ‘You, Me and Tea’ exhibition at the Tower Museum, Derry.
Some of the exhibition pieces on display at the ‘You, Me and Tea’ exhibition at the Tower Museum, Derry.

Launching the exhibition in April, former Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Sandra Duffy, said: “We are a nation of tea-lovers, myself included, and it’s lovely to see this heart-warming exhibition come to the Tower Museum.

"Like a lot of us, I absolutely love a cup of tea, and I couldn’t be without it. It’s fascinating to learn about the origins and connections with China and India and how it ended up here in Ireland. But it also represents the spirit of community and how the simple act of sitting down to share a cuppa can bring comfort, build relations and promote dialogue. I would really recommend calling to see the exhibition while it’s here.”

Before it closes, there will be a number of tea related events taking place in the Tower Museum. Archivist Bernadette Walsh said: “We are delighted to host a number of tea-themed events including a Vintage Tea Party and crafting workshop, a lecture focusing on the history of tea in N. Ireland and you can even design your own tea cup! The events are a great opportunity to get together and celebrate tea and all its fascinating connections to our city.”

You can view You, Me and Tea at the Tower Museum until June 18th. All the public events are free and places can be booked by contacting T: 02871 372411 E: [email protected]

Related topics:ChinaSandra DuffyNorthern IrelandTeaDerryIndiaParticipants