As you might expect in a town with an established creative tradition, the creative buzz in St Ives is infectious.
The town is home to a community of artists working in a variety of media, and you’ll find their work on show in an array of independent galleries offering everything from traditional seascapes to contemporary abstracts and ceramics. Here are some of our favourites:
Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, St Ives
A wonderfully intimate museum, managed by Tate, St Ives, with a garden bursting with subtropical tropical plants and original works by Barbara Hepworth.
The pottery of Bernard Leach, the world famous ceramist who established St Ives as a centre for ceramics. The studio has recently undergone a complete refurbishment, adding a museum and shop. Located at the top of the town, and not to be missed.
One of St Ives’ principal fine art galleries, with stunning views over the picturesque bay and harbour, the Porthminster Gallery has a reputation for showing leading and emerging St Ives and southwest painters, ceramicists and sculptors in a bright and relaxed space.
In our opinion, one of the best commercial galleries in St Ives. Anima-Mundi frequently stages one-man exhibitions of leading local artists.
A hidden gem with some fascinating exhibits.
The St Ives Society of Artists
Lists many famous members and hosts exhibitions throughout the year.
A cooperative set up in 2000, Art Space has an eclectic mix of artwork and is based on The Wharf in St Ives.