Business Details
47 Years
experience
John Hansard Gallery: Contemporary Art in Southampton
John Hansard Gallery, established in 1979 as part of the University of Southampton, stands as one of the UK's leading contemporary art galleries. Our mission is to support, develop, and present exceptional art by international artists while fostering cultural engagement in Southampton and beyond. Through exhibitions, commissions, and community-focused programmes, we create inclusive spaces for reflection, creativity, and dialogue. Our relocation to Studio 144 in 2018 marked a significant milestone, positioning us at the heart of Southampton's Cultural Quarter.Funded by the University and Arts Council England, we combine academic rigor with public accessibility, ensuring our exhibitions and educational initiatives remain free to visitors. With a legacy rooted in photographic and fine art exhibitions, we continue to innovate while honoring our commitment to artistic excellence and community impact.
Services
Contemporary art exhibitions
Artist talks and workshops
Community engagement programmes
Educational resources
Gallery shop
Event hosting
Accessibility services
Public art commissions
Research partnerships
Cultural quarter tours
Details
- Year established: 1979
Highlights and features
- We are a leading contemporary art gallery with national and international recognition
- Our exhibitions and events are free for all visitors
- We offer inclusive, wheelchair-accessible spaces with dedicated community programmes
- Our team collaborates with global artists and academic institutions
- We provide accessible resources including large print texts and sensory-friendly facilities
What people say
Innovative exhibitions
Free entry
Community-focused
Accessible facilities
Educational value
Services
Contemporary art exhibitions
We present rotating exhibitions featuring works by international contemporary artists. Our curated programmes showcase diverse media including painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia installations. Each exhibition is accompanied by educational resources and public programming to deepen visitor engagement with contemporary art practices.
Artist talks and workshops
Our public programme includes artist-led talks, live performances, and hands-on workshops. These events provide opportunities to engage directly with artists and explore creative processes. Sessions cater to all ages and experience levels, from family-friendly activities to professional development workshops for emerging artists.
Community engagement programmes
We develop collaborative projects connecting local communities with contemporary art. Our outreach includes school partnerships, community-curated exhibitions, and participatory art-making sessions. These programmes aim to make contemporary art accessible to diverse audiences through inclusive and co-created experiences.
Educational resources
We provide comprehensive resources supporting art education for schools and individuals. Materials include exhibition guides, artist interviews, and curriculum-linked activity packs. Our Active Space offers dedicated facilities for educational workshops and creative experimentation with contemporary art practices.
Accessibility services
We offer tailored access services including large print texts, sensory-friendly visits, and British Sign Language interpretation. Our fully wheelchair-accessible building features lifts, accessible toilets, and quiet spaces. Staff receive regular training to ensure all visitors can engage meaningfully with our exhibitions and programmes.
People
Louise
Gallery Assistant
Gallery Assistant Louise brings enthusiasm for contemporary art and community engagement. She contributes to exhibition curation and visitor experiences while maintaining her personal art practice focused on sculpture and environmental art.
Woodrow Kernohan
Director
Director Woodrow Kernohan leads the gallery's strategic vision since 2017. With extensive experience in contemporary art curation, he oversees exhibition programming and institutional partnerships while maintaining connections with international art communities.
Questions
Is John Hansard Gallery currently open?
We are temporarily closed in line with Public Health England advice. Please check our website for reopening updates.
What accessibility features do you offer?
We provide wheelchair access, lifts, accessible toilets, large print texts, and sensory-friendly resources for all visitors.
How can I support the gallery?
Support us through donations, purchases from our shop, or by attending events. Your contributions help maintain free exhibitions and community programmes.
Do you offer educational resources for schools?
Yes, we provide curriculum-linked materials, workshops, and school tours designed to engage students with contemporary art practices.
Where are you located?
We are at 142-144 Above Bar Street, Southampton SO14 7DU, opposite Guildhall Square in the Cultural Quarter.
How do I book event tickets?
Event bookings are available through our website. Check individual event pages for reservation details and any free ticket options.
