Must-see exhibitions in the East of England
Want to catch the must-see exhibitions in the East of England? From Paula Rego's fantastical illustrations to sculptures spotlighting the Māori community, don't miss out on these phenomenal shows.
The East of England is rich in cultural landmarks – from the stunning Jacobean architecture of Audley End House and Gardens in Saffron Walden, with its grounds designed by Capability Brown, to the world-renowned collections at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge, home to over 500,000 works of art.
A day out here could include exploring the archaeological collections at Colchester Castle, which span 2,500 years of history, or wandering through Kettle's Yard in Cambridge, where modern art is displayed across a series of elegant rooms. And if you're looking to hone in on the very best exhibitions currently on show in the area, this is the list you've been looking for.
Read on for our guide to some of the biggest blockbuster exhibitions in the East of England open now.
Don't forget to pack your National Art Pass to get great benefits at every venue, and check out our full listings for more upcoming exhibitions.
Discover some of the best exhibitions in the East of England with an Art Pass
Paula Rego: Visions of English Literature
Paula Rego's fantastical visions of folklore, fairy tales and fiction have left an indelible mark on English literature, from JM Barrie's Peter Pan to Charlotte Brontë's Jane Eyre. Uncover her powerful illustrations that brought these beloved childhood stories to life, while shining a light on their darkness and, at times, cruelty.
Love & Landscape: Stanley Spencer in Suffolk
Stanley Spencer became one of the most significant 20th-century British artists, blending biblical imagery with everyday scenes to chronicle the war-torn world around him. This exhibition explores new research that unveils Spencer's personal connection to Suffolk during the 20s and 30s. He married his wife, the arist Hilda Carline, in Suffolk and they regularly visited the county, which left a mark on his artistic practice and personal relationships.
Harold Offeh: Mmm Gotta Try a Little Harder, It Could Be Sweet
Taking inspiration from pop culture and cultural trends, Harold Offeh creates playful and provocative performances and video works that challenges contemporary understandings of politics and identity. In the first major solo show of Offeh's work in a UK institution, see a selection of his ambitious works and socially-engaged projects from the last two decades.
Made in Ancient Egypt
Travel back in time to ancient Egypt and meet the makers of some of its most spectacular objects, from the domestic to the divine. Hear stories about the creative craftspeople who pioneered technologies and new techniques to produce and decorate jewellery, mummy-cases, sculpture, illustrated books and more.
Ghafar Tajmohammad: If you throw a stone in the crowd, someone’s going to get hurt
Ghafar Tajmohammad's paintings and textiles sensitively reflect the stories and experiences of the Afghan community, while highlighting how global conflict impacts their lives. These works explore themes of home, belonging and migration, and speak to the importance of collectivity and solidarity when people are at their most helpless.
Legacies of Windrush in Cambridge
From pub landlords to steelpan band members, hear from the people central to Cambridge's community. In this exhibition, a series of oral histories document and celebrate the lives and experiences of the Windrush Generation in Cambridge, sharing untold stories of the city's Caribbean past.
Tiaki Ora ∞ Protecting Life: Anton Forde
Marvel at 81 monumental wooden sculptures by Anton Forde. Each hand carved sculpture stands over eight feet tall, and incorporates historic Māori figures from the Sainsbury Centre's collection. The work spotlights the Māori community's peaceful resistance to a British colonial invasion in 1881 in Parihaka, New Zealand. And, it demonstrates the importance and power of non-violent collective action when safeguarding future communities.