Art in Cornwall
The world of art has had a long-standing affair with Cornwall, and it’s not hard to see why. From its rugged coastline to its brooding interiors, Cornwall is a county of contrasts and creativity, and has fostered many important and ground-breaking movements. This creative legacy looks set to continue, with galleries packed with incredible works dotted all over the county. Whilst this is a short list of some of the big hitters, some of the fun of gallery exploring is getting off the beaten track and finding the smaller venues. Often with an artist in residence, these amazing studios are often found in the most unlikely places, so keep your eyes peeled!
Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, Penzance
Set in a sheltered valley with views to St Michaels Mount, this unique garden is home to permanent artworks that blend with the landscape and planting to create a magical place. Now home to one of the largest purpose-built art galleries in Cornwall, as well as a restaurant with views of The Mount.
Jackson Foundation, St Just-in -Penwith
https://www.jacksonfoundationgallery.com
Named Best Art Gallery in Cornwall three years in a row, the foundation was set up by acclaimed contemporary artist Kurt Jackson to provide a venue that showcases all types of artistic expression. Free to the public, this versatile space has a main gallery featuring important and emerging artists, and an upstairs venue given to the various charities that the foundation supports, including Surfers Against Sewage, Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth and the Cornwall Wildlife Trust.
The Exchange/ Newlyn Art Gallery, Penzance
https://newlynartgallery.co.uk/activity-venues/the-exchange/
These two spaces are not only ambitious in presenting extensive programmes across both sites but are also committed to supporting creativity and wellbeing within communities. Featuring a schedule packed with exhibitions, workshops and events, their mission is to deepen public engagement with the arts in all forms.
Penwith Gallery, St Ives
Housed in an old pilchard packing factory, the Penwith Gallery has expanded to incorporate three public galleries, a printmaking workshop, ten artists’ studios, a sculpture courtyard, shop and archive. Situated in the heart of St Ives and founded by a group of influential and progressive artists, the Penwith is renowned for presenting diverse and exciting programmes year round.
The Drang Gallery, Padstow
A contemporary gallery focussing on modern works, The Drang operates from five venues in the Southwest. The Padstow gallery has been home to works by Damien Hirst, Banksy, Nelson de la Nuez and Tracey Emin, and has a roster of new talents showcased alongside the household names.
The Tate/Barbara Hepworth, St Ives
https://www.tate.org.uk/visit/tate-st-ives/barbara-hepworth-museum-and-sculpture-garden
Part of the Tate Family, Tate St Ives and the Hepworth Museum need no introduction. Featuring exhibitions by leading international artists as well as famed Cornish talents, no art-lovers visit to Cornwall is complete without a trip to the Tate.
Circle gallery, Wadebridge
https://circlecontemporary.co.uk
Now in its 10th year, this contemporary gallery has two floors of exhibition space featuring work from resident artists and international names. Taking its direction from the coastal environment, the gallery explores the connections between artist and nature.
North Coast Asylum, Newquay
https://www.northcoastasylum.com
Located in a listed chapel built in the 1800’s, NCA was established with two main principles in mind: show art in amazing surroundings and ensure that the artist receives a fair sum for their work. Featuring an exciting roster of local artists as well as wider exhibitions, this newly opened gallery is making a name for itself in the artistic community and beyond.