Rye Art Gallery

The gallery houses a captivating blend of contemporary art and a permanent collection that showcases the works of renowned British artists.

Two artist’s houses

Rye Gallery formed in the mid 20th century when artists Mary Stormont and Eileen Easton bequeathed their collections and neighbouring houses. Today the houses have been converted into six exhibition spaces, linked by a staircase.

Contemporary art

The Rye Art Gallery regularly hosts temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary art and craft. These exhibitions offer a dynamic platform for emerging and established artists, showcasing a wide range of styles and mediums, with many artworks available for sale.

Permanent collection

Focusing on British Art of the 20th century, the gallery holds around 650 works by major national and regional figures. These include Edward Burra and Paul Nash, who both lived in Rye, Ivon Hitchens, John Bratby, Eric Gill, John Piper, Fred Cuming and many others. For conservation reasons, displays feature around 20–30 pieces at a time in themed exhibitions. It is recommended that you contact the gallery if you wish to research or see particular work.

Bloomsbury connection

Several members of the renowned Bloomsbury Group artistic and literary circle, including Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, had ties to Rye and their works can be found within the gallery's collection.