Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture

The art scene in Cornwall is as varied as the scenery – modern exhibitions, contemporary galleries, local craft, traditional watercolours and much more.The crystal clear light and sheer inspiration is a compelling draw for artists. There is an abundance of wonderful galleries: listed below include some local ones but there are many more through out the county especially in Newlyn, Penzance and St Ives.

Arts

Art Galleries in Cornwall

  • The Tate Gallery, St Ives.
    Opened in 1993, The Tate is one of Cornwall’s leading attractions. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece overlooking the beach and houses fantastic modern art. Nearby is the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.
  • Penlee House, Newlyn.
    Largest collection of Newlyn Art.
  • Trelissick Gallery, Feock.
    National Trust, next to the famous garden. Contemporary arts and craft.
  • Fowey River Gallery, Fowey.
    Excellent quality. Impressive artists.
  • Falmouth Art Galley, Falmouth.
  • Inside Cornwall Gallery Guide has more information on art galleries in Cornwall.

Theatre & Music

Theatre and music in truly unique locations … and some more traditional.

Eden Sessions at The Eden Project near St Austell in Cornwall

Photo Credit: Emily Whitfield Wicks/Apex/The Eden Project

  • Minack Theatre, Penzance.
    World famous cliff top open-air theatre. Stunning.
  • Sterts Theatre, Nr Liskeard on Bodmin Moor.
    Unique open air theatre under canvas. Enjoy the performance.
  • Eden Sessions, Eden Project.
    Not just a horticultural miracle but hosts summer concerts. Used as a Live-8 venue.
  • Carnglaze Caverns, Near Liskeard.
    Underground cavern formerly slate mine. Fantastic acoustics.
  • Hall for Cornwall, Truro.
    Theatre, dance, opera, music. Huge variety.
  • Fowey Festival of Arts and Music, Fowey.
    Held every May. Entertaining and sparkling 10 days of star names, drama, music, talk concerts, guided walks and local events.

  • What’s On in Cornwall has a comprehensive list of events.

Literature

  • Many writers have drawn inspiration from Cornwall including Daphne du Maurier, Thomas Hardy, Phillip Marseden, Winston Graham, Rosemunde Pilcher, Patrick Gale, D H Lawrence and, of course, the late Poet Laureate Sir John Betjeman.

Cinema

  • WTW Cinemas.
    St Austell has the White River Cinema. There are also WTW cinemas in Wadebridge and Truro.

Museums