Must-see exhibitions in the East of England
Want to catch the must-see exhibitions in the East of England? From Lubaina Himid's vibrant paintings 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
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.
T’wixt Sea & Pine
Journey through 50 years of the coastal market town of Sheringham's recent history, from 1975 to today. Through intriguing displays, this exhibition documents the area's heritage and how it has changed, from the seafront murals to the North Norfolk Railway.
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.
Lubaina Himid with Magda Stawarska: Another Chance Encounter
If you weren't able to get to the ICA's recent exhibition curated by Lubaina Himid, or it has inspired you to see more of her work, then you absolutely cannot miss this exhibition of her paintings and an installation created with Magda Stawarska. These works ask important questions about overlooked life stories, who is excluded from narratives, and what objects we elect to leave behind as mementos.
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.