2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the birth of Suffolk born artist, John Constable (1776-1837), who would become one of the most important of all British painters. To commemorate his life and work Colchester + Ipswich Museums present Constable 250, a programme of exhibitions and activities at the heart of which will be three landmark exhibitions at Ipswich’s Christchurch Mansion.

The final exhibition of the year-long celebration will highlight the artistic and cultural relevancy of Constable’s art through a variety of contemporary and community responses.

Featuring work produced over the anniversary year through varied engagement opportunities including Constable 250 community partners and participating schools, the exhibition will offer a final moment of celebration and reflection for the anniversary year.

Suffolk Art Link’s Brave Art Groups, for adults with learning disabilities, will develop a new body of mixed media works inspired by the work of Constable.

Community Hub Ipswich (CHIp) will develop a youth led immersive artwork bringing to life the essence of ‘Constable Country’ through the senses.

Constable 250 is made possible with The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Thanks to National Lottery players, we will be able to explore Constable’s art and legacy through 2026.

The loans are supported by the Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund.

We are grateful for the generosity of the Friends of Ipswich Museums, Kerseys Solicitors, East Anglia Art Fund and Art Friends Suffolk in their support of the Constable 250 exhibition programme.