The Tate St Ives is a contemporary art museum located in the seaside town of St Ives, Cornwall, United Kingdom. It is one of four branches of the Tate, a network of galleries in England that is responsible for the national collection of British art from the 16th century to the present day, and international modern and contemporary art.
The Tate St Ives was founded in 1993, following a major campaign to establish a museum in the town that would showcase the work of artists who had lived and worked there. The building that houses the museum was designed by the architect Jamie Fobert, and it was built on the site of an old gasworks overlooking Porthmeor Beach. The museum has four galleries, a café, and a shop, and it is surrounded by beautiful gardens that offer panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
One of the main attractions of the Tate St Ives is its collection of works by artists who are associated with the St Ives School, a group of artists who lived and worked in the town in the 20th century. The St Ives School was a hub of artistic activity in the mid-1900s, and it was home to many talented artists, including Barbara Hepworth, Ben Nicholson, and Patrick Heron. The Tate St Ives has a large collection of works by these artists, as well as by other members of the St Ives School, such as Roger Hilton, Terry Frost, and Bernard Leach.
In addition to its collection of works by the St Ives School, the Tate St Ives also has a collection of international modern and contemporary art. This includes works by artists such as Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and David Hockney, as well as by more recent artists such as Tracey Emin and Cornelia Parker. The museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, which showcase the work of contemporary artists from around the world.
The Tate St Ives is not only a museum, but it is also a center for the arts, with a range of educational and community programs. The museum runs workshops, talks, and tours for adults and children, and it also hosts a variety of events, such as concerts and performances. The museum is committed to making contemporary art accessible to all, and it works with schools and other community organizations to develop programs that engage people of all ages and backgrounds.
The Tate St Ives is a popular destination for tourists and art lovers, and it attracts over 200,000 visitors each year. Its beautiful location, stunning views, and diverse collection make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Cornwall. Whether you are an art enthusiast or just looking for a unique and inspiring day out, the Tate St Ives is sure to impress.