Newlyn Art Gallery & The Exchange is a leading arts organization based in Cornwall, committed to promoting creativity, excellence, and access in the arts. We are an educational charity, an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organization, and a Cornwall Council Strategic Arts Client. Our organization is also a founding member of Plus Tate, a network of leading visual arts organizations across the UK, dedicated to increasing public value and broadening engagement in art.
Our journey began in 1895 when Newlyn Art Gallery was established, thanks to the generous support of the Le Grice family and the philanthropist John Passmore Edwards. Over the past 110 years, we have been presenting contemporary art at our Newlyn location, and in 2007, we expanded our programs by acquiring Penzance's former telephone exchange. This enabled us to provide new spaces that reflect the diversity of artists' practices in Cornwall, the UK, and internationally.
Our focus extends beyond our buildings, as we aim to create meaningful change for the communities we serve. Inspired by the principles of John Passmore Edwards, we believe that art can transform lives for the better. We are committed to exploring the role of artists and arts organizations in addressing the social challenges and environmental realities of today, working toward measurable improvements in the lives of our communities.
Exhibitions and Programs
At Newlyn Art Gallery & The Exchange, we offer a wide-ranging and varied exhibition program across our two sites and beyond, showcasing contemporary work in all media. We proudly support local creativity and wellbeing by presenting the work of both established and emerging artists, fostering a vibrant arts scene in Cornwall.
We are currently hosting several captivating exhibitions, including "Fran Rowse: Maids" at The Ramp Wall, The Exchange until 29 June 2023, and "Stephen" at The Exchange from 4 May 2024 to 2 November 2024. Additionally, "Dead-Man's Fingers" can be experienced at Newlyn Art Gallery from 4 May 2024 to 2 November 2024, while "Sophie Harding" is exhibited at The Picture Room from 27 April to 8 June 2024.
Learning and Engagement
Our commitment to community engagement includes offering accessible learning opportunities and workshops for people of all ages and backgrounds. With programs like the "Still Life Oil Painting with Aster Guinness" workshop on Saturday, 18 May 2024, we aim to provide enriching experiences that inspire and engage.
ACCESS & EXCELLENCE
We strive for accessibility and excellence in all aspects of our organization, from our exhibition programs to our community outreach initiatives. Newlyn Art Gallery & The Exchange prioritizes making art and creativity available to all, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment.
Join Our Mailing List
To stay informed about our upcoming events, exhibitions, and workshops, please join our mailing list. We look forward to sharing the world of art and creativity with you.
Overall Experience
The reviews suggest a mixed bag of opinions about the gallery. On one hand, many reviewers praised the beautiful paintings and artifacts, cute gallery space, and thought-provoking exhibitions. On the other hand, some reviewers were disappointed with the small gallery space, lack of artistic merit, and environmental protest exhibitions.
Positive Comments
The gallery's beautiful paintings and artifacts, cute gallery space, and thought-provoking exhibitions were praised by many reviewers. The cafe and staff were also commended for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Negative Comments
The gallery's small size, lack of artistic merit, and environmental protest exhibitions were criticized by some reviewers. Some reviewers also felt that the gallery did not live up to their expectations, particularly in terms of the quality and volume of artwork on display.

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