St Ives town is full of amazing little art galleries. They range from the really big well known ones, such as the Tate and Leach Pottery, to small collectives producing incredibly varied and amazing works of original art.
My list of art galleries isn’t complete. I’ve added the ones I know well – if there are any that aren’t on the list that you would like added, send me a message. I will be happy to check them out!
St Ives Society Of Artists
Founded in 1927, the St Ives Society of Artists is a longstanding beacon of creativity in St Ives. It is located in the large, former mariners' church by The Sloop car park in town.
It holds rotating exhibitions by its members and visiting artists in two dedicated spaces, all in the charming central location of the Mariners’ Gallery.
It is made up of two gallery venues:
The Mariners’ Gallery: where members showcase their work and host open exhibitions.
The Crypt Gallery: a rental space used to spotlight visiting artists and curated shows.
They showcase a variety of expressive media, from painting and printmaking to sculpture, as works from both members and invited artists rotate through the gallery
LOCATION MAP: Norway Square, Saint Ives TR26 1NA
St Ives Society Of Artists Gallery website >>
Penwith Gallery
Tucked away along Back Road West in the heart of St Ives, the Penwith Gallery is a wonderfully quirky and light-filled complex that used to be a pilchard-packing factory.
It’s the proud home of the Penwith Society of Arts, which was founded in 1949 by groundbreaking artists like Barbara Hepworth, Ben Nicholson, Peter Lanyon, Bernard Leach, Sven Berlin, and Wilhelmina Barns-Graham, names that still echo through British art history.
Inside, you’ll find three airy galleries, a vibrant printmakers’ workshop, artist studios, a sculpture courtyard, a shop brimming with local crafts, plus an archive, providing a dynamic backdrop for a year-round programme of contemporary and historical exhibitions by both Society members and guest artists.
LOCATION MAP: Back Rd E, Saint Ives TR26 1NLArt Space Gallery
Located right on the harbour at The Wharf in St Ives, the Art Space Gallery is a charming, artist-run gem that’s been fueling Cornwall’s creative heart since 2000.
This welcoming gallery is run by seven talented local creatives working in a variety of styles, including traditional oils, vivid screenprints, delicate watercolours, carved abstracts, and reduction lino-cuts, plus jewellery and handcrafted books.
They are all refreshingly affordable and brimming with personality
The gallery’s ever-changing exhibitions guarantee there’s always something new to admire, and best of all, the artists themselves often staff the space. This gives a real chance for friendly chat and insight into their work
LOCATION MAP: The Wharf, Saint Ives TR26 1PU
Gallery 38
Just along The Wharf from Art Space Gallery is Gallery 38. This is a delightful, family-run gem that oozes character and Cornish charm. They sell handcrafted glass, cozy wooden crafts, and original artworks, many by local British artists. These are perfect for souvenirs, thoughtful gifts, or that special piece to evoke your St Ives memories
LOCATION MAP: 38 The Wharf, Saint Ives TR26 1PG
Harbour Galleries
Harbour Galleries is right on Wharf Road overlooking the harbour. It is an arcade of 7 shops run by local artists and craftspeople. There is lots of work for sale displayed on the walls, and you can watch the artists work in their studios.
LOCATION MAP: Wharf Road St Ives, TR26 1HG
Harbour Galleries Facebook page >>
Whites Old Workshops
Tucked away along Porthmeor Road (and Back Road), Whites Old Workshops sits at the heart of St Ives' artistic quarter, a conservation area of narrow, winding streets that bloom with creative energy.
The workshops are part of a striking block of old buildings where artists have long set up studios amid the maze of alleyways, just steps away from the harbour and golden beaches.
It’s a lively hub where artists of many disciplines meet, create, and share. Visitors can wander in (often during events like the St Ives September Festival), peek into the studios, chat with artists, or just soak up that creative energy.
LOCATION MAP: Porthmeor Rd, Saint Ives TR26 1NP
Salthouse Gallery
Salthouse Gallery is a contemporary art space located in the heart of St Ives, just off the harbour up by the Mariners Church.
The gallery provides a platform for artists to showcase their work, offering exhibition space to enable them to display their creations.
Visitors can explore a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and other visual arts, reflecting the vibrant artistic community of St Ives.
LOCATION MAP: Norway Square, 2a Back Rd E, St Ives TR26 1NA
Phone: 07899 965901
Blue Bramble Gallery
Tucked inside St Ives’ historic Market House, Blue Bramble Gallery is a warm and welcoming space that’s been championing local creativity since 2014.
Run by Anna (often with gallery dog Lily by her side), it’s packed with Cornish talent. You will find paintings, ceramics, jewellery, textiles, and quirky sculptures that capture the spirit of the coast.
Friendly, relaxed, and full of character, it’s the kind of gallery where browsing feels like a chat with St Ives itself; artsy, colourful, and wonderfully down to earth.
LOCATION MAP: 1, Market House, Market Pl, Saint Ives TR26 1RZ
Blue Bramble Gallery website >>
Porthminster Gallery
Porthminster Gallery is a leading contemporary art space in St Ives. It is renowned for its curated exhibitions featuring both established and emerging British artists.
Located on Fore Street, the gallery showcases a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, prints, sculpture, and ceramics.
Notable artists represented include Barbara Hepworth, Sir Peter Blake, and Ben Nicholson, among others.
With its bright and inviting atmosphere, Porthminster Gallery offers art enthusiasts a welcoming environment to explore and appreciate high-quality British art.
LOCATION MAP: 22 Fore St, St Ives TR26 1HE
Porthminster Gallery website >>
New Craftsman Gallery
Located on Fore Street, the New Craftsman Gallery was established in 1965 by potter Janet Leach.
The gallery has long supported the careers of notable artists such as Peter Lanyon, Bryan Winter, Patrick Heron, and Wilhelmina Barns-Graham.
Today, it continues to showcase a diverse range of contemporary crafts, including ceramics, glass, wood, metal, fine art jewellery, sculptures, and paintings.
With eight curated exhibitions annually, the gallery remains a vital space for both emerging and established artists, reflecting the dynamic creative spirit of Cornwall.
LOCATION MAP: 24 Fore St, St Ives TR26 1HE
Back Road Artworks
Back Road Artworks occupies what used to be Stevens Fish Shop on Back Road East.
It is now an artist-led, cooperative gallery that breathes new life into traditional space.
Established by eight local creatives, the gallery offers a dynamic open-studio vibe, where visitors can browse paintings, handmade jewellery, and even catch artists in action. It doesn't have the classic, stuffy gallery feel, just pure creative buzz.
It’s a cosy, authentic space where the art feels as alive as the town itself.
LOCATION MAP: Back Rd E, St Ives TR26 1NW
Back Road Artworks Instagram page >>
Leel Gallery and Cafe
Tucked into the lively corner of Back Road East and Fish Street is Leel, a name rooted in the Cornish word for “local”.
It is a fresh and inviting addition to St Ives’ artistic scene. This boutique gallery offers locally crafted artworks such as eco-jewellery, ceramics, paintings, and artisanal gifts.
Alongside the gallery, the adjoining artisan cafe serves up indulgent treats like luxury hot chocolates from multiple origins, specialty coffees, and organic slushies made with small-batch vintage cordials and edible flower petals, all served in compostable cups.
LOCATION MAP: Back Rd E, St Ives TR26 1NW
Sharon McSwiney
Sharon McSwiney is renowned for her handcrafted jewellery and metalwork, deeply inspired by the coastal beauty of St Ives.
With over 30 years of professional experience, Sharon creates unique pieces that reflect the textures and colours of the sea, including limpet shell jewellery and abstract metal wall art.
Her work is showcased in her Gallery on the Square in St Ives, and she is also a member of Back Road Artworks, a co-operative gallery in the town.
LOCATION MAP: Gallery on the Square 12, Island Square, St Ives TR26 1NX
St Ives Ceramics
St Ives Ceramics is a gallery dedicated to showcasing contemporary and museum-quality ceramics.
Established in 1990 by John Bedding, a former apprentice at the renowned Leach Pottery, the gallery offers a curated selection of works by leading British and international ceramicists.
Visitors can explore a diverse range of pieces, from functional pottery to sculptural art, reflecting the rich tradition of studio pottery in the region.
LOCATION MAP: 1 Fish St, St Ives TR26 1LT
Art House Gallery
Nestled in the heart of St Ives, Art House Gallery offers a range of contemporary art from both local and national artists.
Located on the corner of Island Rd and Back Rd E, the gallery is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and diverse collection, featuring works by artists such as Trace Goldsmith, Joe Armstrong, Allan Storer, and Sue Mecklenburgh.
LOCATION MAP: 1 Island Rd, St Ives TR26 1NT
St Ives Arts Club
The St Ives Arts Club, established in 1890, stands as the town's oldest arts institution and a cornerstone of its vibrant cultural scene.
Perched on Westcott’s Quay, this Grade II-listed building has weathered both literal and metaphorical storms over the years, remaining a steadfast hub for artistic expression.
Originally founded to provide a space for artists, musicians, and writers, the club has since expanded its offerings to include exhibitions, theatrical performances, poetry readings, musical concerts, and even comedy nights.
The club's mission is to promote public education and appreciation of the arts in all their forms, fostering a community where creativity thrives.
LOCATION MAP: Westcotts Quay, St Ives TR26 2DY
Barnoon Arts
Barnoon Arts is a vibrant creative hub nestled in one of St Ives' smallest and most charming buildings on Westcotts Quay.
Established in 2015 by artists Peter Giles and Zoe Eaton, the gallery showcases contemporary original artwork, unique prints, and handmade artist cards.
Beyond its exhibition space, Barnoon Arts offers a diverse range of art classes throughout the year, catering to all ages and abilities. From outdoor sketching sessions like "Draw St Ives" to abstract drawing workshops and private art lessons, there's something for everyone.
The gallery also stocks a selection of art materials, including sketchbooks, paints, and drawing tools.
LOCATION MAP: Westcotts Quay, St Ives TR26 2DY
Sloop Studios
Sloop Studios is a creative community nestled just behind the iconic Sloop Inn in St Ives.
Established in 1969 on the site of an old fish cellar, the studios have evolved into a dynamic space where artists and craftspeople work and showcase their creations.
Visitors can explore a variety of open studios, each offering unique handmade items such as jewellery, prints, ceramics, stained glass, and textiles.
The cobbled walkways and historic setting add to the charm, making it a delightful spot to discover local art and craftsmanship.
LOCATION MAP: Back Ln, St Ives TR26 1LS
THE BIG WELL KNOWN GALLERIES:
Leach Pottery
The Leach Pottery in St Ives, Cornwall, is a cornerstone of British studio pottery.
Founded in 1920 by Bernard Leach and Shoji Hamada, it remains a vibrant hub for ceramics, blending Eastern and Western traditions.
Visitors can explore the original pottery, including the clay room, throwing room with kick wheels, and a Japanese climbing kiln.
The museum offers insights into the history of the pottery and the many potters who have trained and worked there.
Additionally, the site hosts exhibitions, workshops, and a shop featuring work from over 70 individual potters.
The Leach Pottery is currently undergoing a huge extension. It is still open though!
LOCATION MAP: Higher Stennack, Saint Ives TR26 2HE
Tate St Ives
LOCATION MAP: Porthmeor Beach, Saint Ives TR26 1TG
Barbara Hepworth Museum & Sculpture Garden
The Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden in St Ives offers a fabulous insight into the life and work of one of Britain's most renowned 20th-century artists.
Housed in Trewyn Studio just up from Fore St, where Hepworth lived and worked from 1949 until her death in 1975, the museum preserves her studio, living spaces. There is also a lush garden filled with over 30 of her sculptures in wood, stone, plaster, and bronze.
The tranquil garden, designed by Hepworth herself, provides a harmonious setting for her works, reflecting her belief that art should be experienced in a natural environment. For me, it is one of the most loveliest places in St Ives!
LOCATION MAP: Barnoon Hill, Saint Ives TR26 1AD
Porthmeor Studios
Around 1885 artists started to come to St Ives. They began using Porthmeor net lofts, providing extra income for the fishermen out of season. They later moved into purpose build studios and by 1900 there were around a dozen artists studios there.
The building itself is grade II listed, and is constructed of a mix of stone, concrete and timber frame with a wet-laid slate roof. The Atlantic weather took its toll on the building though and a recent £4million renovation has breathed new life into the building.
Artists who have worked here include Julius Olsson, Frances Hodgkins, Ben Nicholson, Patrick Heron, Francis Bacon and Wilhelmina Barns-Graham.
The recent renovations increased the studios to 19, 15 of which are used by artists, 2 for the St Ives School Of Painting, and 2 for the trust.
Many events and exhibitions are run here, including art classes, installations, and the really interesting old net lofts which show how the fishing industry and artists worked side by side.
Which is your favourite art gallery in St Ives? Have I not included your favourite? Let me know and I will add it to the list!
