Favourite Art Galleries In The South West
We are so lucky in the south west that we have so many incredible art galleries around us. From being inspired to being challenged, each time I visit a gallery I come away with different emotions, energies and ideas. If you'd like to visit some fantastic spaces then here are my favourite art galleries in the south west...
Tremenheere Sculpture Garden, Penzance, Cornwall
Tucked in a sheltered valley overlooking St Michael's Mount you'll find this exotic garden as a backdrop to sculptures by internationally renowned artists. They have a fabulous restaurant overlooking Mount's Bay (the Sunday roast is my recommendation!) and they run a summer programme of wellness from breathwork and yoga to meditation and sound therapy. I'm very tempted to sign up for a session this year!
Arnolfini, Bristol
Since 1961 Arnolfini has been a centre for contemporary arts right on the historic harbourside in Bristol. As well as housing amazing exhibitions and one of the best art bookshops in the country, they are home to creative and learning spaces, workshops, talks, performance, films and community groups. Well worth a visit and one of my top gallery recommendations of all time. Hanging out at the waterside café bar is always one of my favourite Bristol spots on a sunny afternoon too!
Fairlynch Museum, Budleigh Salterton, Devon
How often do you find a museum and gallery in a thatched cottage next to the beach? If this isn't the perfect Devon gallery and museum I don't know what is! Founded in the 1960's by four women to house local art, photography, a collection of costumes, lace, archaeology and geology. A treasure trove that is well worth a visit. I like to combine it with a walk on the beach plus takeaway fish and chips from Rockfish on the seafront!
Hauser & Wirth, Bruton, Somerset
A collection of former farm buildings now house this internationally renowned gallery. They have a program of exhibitions, events, learning activities and artist residencies, which connect with the local community and landscape. I love exploring the stunning gardens which were designed by the Dutch landscaper Piet Oudolf. With the beautiful bar, restaurant and farm shop, I'm happy wandering here all day. My top tip? Hop over to the nearby Wild Shed community sauna for a relaxing session before your leave Bruton. Then head home via nearby Lievito Bakery to collect some artisan treats.
The Box, Plymouth, Devon
A museum, gallery and archive right in the heart of Plymouth that I find fascinating to visit for it's broad range of exhibits. With everything from natural history to local history, maritime exhibits, art, textiles, photography, moving image and more. My favourite bit? I know it should be something more arty, but I never miss a chance to say hello to the woolly mammoth!
Newlyn Art Gallery & The Exchange, Penzance, Cornwall
These two sites not only present contemporary art, but also actively support the creativity and wellbeing of the community, so it gets a big thumbs up from me. They believe that art can change lives for the better and are committed to exploring the role of artists and arts organisations in addressing today’s great social challenges and environmental realities, in ways that measurably improve lives across communities. They have a vibrant programme of events with everything from shows to walking tours, workshops, art clubs and more. I love the walk between the two venues which takes you right along Penzance promenade. My top tip is to book a ticket for the Jubilee Pool for while you're in town for a swim in the beautiful art deco sea pool.