Modern Art Oxford is a contemporary art space with exhibitions, events, projects, and online activities in the city of Oxford. The gallery holds regular activities and workshops in its creative space. And, if you can’t visit in person, you can explore the online studio from the comfort of your home.
The gallery aims to engage and challenge its audiences through thought-provoking and innovative exhibitions, and it frequently collaborates with national and international artists, curators, and cultural organizations. It also offers educational workshops, talks, and guided tours to foster public understanding and appreciation of contemporary art.
The History of Modern Art Oxford
Modern Art Oxford was established in 1965 as The Museum of Modern Art, Oxford, with the aim of presenting and promoting modern and contemporary art to the public. It has since undergone several name changes and rebranding, and in 2002, it became known as Modern Art Oxford.
The gallery is housed in a former brewery building, which was renovated and converted into a contemporary art space. It features a variety of exhibition spaces, including large galleries for major exhibitions, smaller galleries for solo or group shows, and a project space for experimental and emerging artists.
Five Notable Exhibitions Held at Modern Art Oxford
Modern Art Oxford has housed several notable exhibitions. Here are my top five that have also received positive attention:
- “Kara Walker: Fons Americanus” (2019): This exhibition featured the work of renowned American artist Kara Walker. The centrepiece of the exhibition was a large-scale fountain sculpture inspired by the Victoria Memorial in London, addressing themes of race, power, and colonialism.
- “Richard Long: Time and Space” (2017): Richard Long, a prominent British artist known for his land art, presented a major solo exhibition at Modern Art Oxford. The exhibition showcased Long’s unique approach to sculpture, photography, and text-based works, exploring his deep connection to nature and the landscapes he encounters.
- “Yoko Ono: Half-A-Wind Show” (2013): Yoko Ono, a renowned Japanese artist and peace activist, held a retrospective exhibition at Modern Art Oxford. The show encompassed a wide range of her artistic practices, including installations, performances, films, and conceptual artworks, spanning several decades of her career.
- “Thomas Houseago: What Went Down” (2010): This exhibition featured the work of British artist Thomas Houseago, known for his monumental sculptures. The show presented a selection of his sculptures and drawings, exploring themes of the human body, abstraction, and the transformative potential of materials.
- “Tracey Emin: This is Another Place” (2002): Tracey Emin, a prominent British artist, exhibited her works at Modern Art Oxford. The exhibition showcased her intensely personal and confessional artworks, including neon signs, sculptures, and installations, exploring themes of identity, sexuality, and vulnerability.
Why Should you Visit Modern Art Oxford?
Modern Art Oxford offers cutting-edge exhibitions of international modern and contemporary visual art. Plus, it has a wonderful upbeat café! Their programmes offer opportunities for inspirational exchange and creative participation, both in-person and online.
The gallery also has a café, shop, and Creative Spaces where visitors can experiment and play with art. The café offers delicious Lavazza coffee, fresh and seasonal food, and is attended by friendly staff. The shop allows visitors to browse a collection of unique gifts such as jewellery, cards, exhibition merchandise, books, and more.
Find out what’s on at the gallery – exhibitions, events, projects, online activities and more through their website below.
Where is Modern Art Oxford?
Modern Art Oxford is located in the centre of the city of Oxford and close to many local transport links. The gallery is fully accessible for visitors and has disabled parking, wheelchair access, accessible guides, baby changing rooms, and welcomes guide dogs, hearing, and registered assistance dogs.
Website: https://www.modernartoxford.org.uk/
Address: 30 Pembroke St, Oxford OX1 1BP
Phone: 01865 722733
