Cornwall has all sorts of different cultural offerings on tap, of course, their theatres offer both local and international productions in all kinds of venues while the Annual Cornwall Film Festival is a landmark occasion. Literature, too, has a place in Cornwall’s cultural history as well as its future. The area’s association with Daphne Du Maurier has given rise to the Du Maurier Festival and it is also home to the Port Elliot Literary Festival, the St. Ives September Festival, Cornish storytelling group Scavel an Gow, and the grave of Sir John Betjememan. Still, the most vibrant of the rich cultures of Cornwall is the artist’s scene.
Art Tourism In Cornwalll
Cornwall is home to the highest concentration of working artists outside of London. This may have something to do with the luminous beauty of the light available in places like Porthminster Beach, a spit of land surrounded by the sea and the light it reflects, or it may be due to its original artists colonies and the support and community that they offer. Whatever the reason, Cornwall is the place to go if you plan to visit galleries, museums, workshops, or even civic installations. Here are some of the most notable cultural sites available:
• St Ives – One of the original artists’ colonies and now known for its art. The area is home to many museums and galleries.
• The Tate St Ives – Home to works of international modern and contemporary art as well as works from the Tate Collection.
• The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden – Managed by The Tate and showing the work of Britain’s most important 20th century sculptor.
• The Back Road Trail – The guide to some of the less well known of St Ives art sites.
• Leach Pottery – The long anticipated site of the charity’s studio and museum for the education and training of pottery artists and enthusiasts.
• Newlyn – One of the original artists’ colonies whose art scene dates to the 1880s.
• Penlee House Gallery and Museum – Home to a collection specializing in the Newlyn School artists as well as West Cornwall’s archeology and social history.
• The Newlyn Art Gallery – Showcasing the best of contemporary art internationally as well as focusing in on local artists.
• The Exchange – Partner gallery to the Newlyn Art Gallery
• Falmouth – A creative town that values arts and crafts by playing host to regular exhibitions.
• University College Falmouth
• The Poly – An arts center and independent cinema.
• Falmouth Art Gallery – An award winning art gallery with a permanent collection of works by major British artists.