Eastbourne’s award-winning gallery has an impressive collection of modern British art, and a growing collection of international contemporary art.
Collecting and exhibiting contemporary art for nearly 100 years, Towner Eastbourne presents a programme of historic, modern and contemporary art through exhibitions, talks, events and creative activities.
The gallery was founded in 1923 as a result of a bequest by Alderman John Chisholm Towner to create ‘an art gallery for the people’, and this ethos remains at the heart of Towner's mission.
Towner's collection is best known for its modern British art, including the largest and most significant body of work by Eric Ravilious (1903-42) and a growing collection of international contemporary art, including works by Dineo Seshee Bopape, John Akomfrah, Lawrence Abu Hamdan, Tacita Dean, Grayson Perry and Wolfgang Tillmans.
Towner also provides spaces for study and relaxation including a Sensory Room, a Collection Library and a cinema, which screens a regular programme of films including new releases, documentaries, classics, family film and more.
Meanwhile the Art School programme offers creative activities for everyone, from children and young people to adults, including drawing, making, designing and filmmaking. A professional development programme for artists of all levels offers artist residencies, mentoring and opportunities for collaboration and showcasing.
