Have art galleries had their day? With an endless supply of visually stimulating content available online do you really need to visit a gallery in person? If you chose to you could just add an original piece of art to your basket and have it delivered to your home – easy!
Despite this, it seems that people are voting with their feet, with the latest Government figures showing an increase in visits to galleries. Whether it’s the view of the beach or someone’s beautifully crafted piece of art, the opportunity to experience it in real life wins over the virtual version for many people.
A visit to a gallery also presents the chance to perhaps meet the artist themselves or start a conversation with someone new. Here are some of our local art galleries we think are worth a visit. You may just be surprised at what you see, whom you meet, and what you will learn.
Brook Gallery – Budleigh Salterton
The Brook gallery is one of Devon’s most famous galleries. Since its opening in 1997 visitors have enjoyed this beautifully decorated gallery with its sea views. Located in this sleepy Devon town the gallery brings top artists to the county.
White Space Art – Totnes
Smack bang in the heart of Totnes, White Space Art has a rolling exhibit space, which features work by both emerging and established British artists who mostly come from the South-West. A mixture of paintings, sculptures and jewellery, there is a range of creations in their exhibitions.
Brownston Gallery – Modbury
The Brownston Gallery is tucked away in the small village of Modbury in the South Hams. A mixture of paintings, sculptures and ceramics from emerging and established artists who have lived in and been inspired by this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are exhibited. There are plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat or pot of tea nearby.
Tate St Ives
Perhaps one of the most renowned of our South West galleries is the Tate St Ives. Perched above Porthmeor Beach with views across the Atlantic Ocean, the gallery showcases some of the best-loved British artworks of the 20th Century alongside an ever-changing programme of exhibitions.
Although not free, it is a chance to experience contemporary and modern at its very best.
Newlyn & The Exchange
Newlyn Gallery and its sister gallery The Exchange in Penzance, are a celebration of Cornwall’s long history of contemporary art. Presenting contemporary work in all media by regional, national and international artists, both galleries have a changing programme of exhibitions and events. The Studio Cafe at Newlyn Art Gallery is highly rated for its coffee, which patrons can sip while enjoying panoramic views across Mounts Bay.