2 Art Galleries to Explore in Essex

Firstsite is the East of England's contemporary visual arts organization. From its spectacular golden building designed by world-renowned architect Rafael Viñoly, Firstsite presents a varied and challenging program of exhibitions, commissions, residencies, and screenings, in a broad range of media and art forms, by nationally and internationally acclaimed artists.

The Fry Art Gallery displays a unique collection of paintings, prints, books and ceramics showing the artistic heritage of north west Essex, featuring Edward Bawden, Eric Ravilious, Michael Rothenstein, John Aldridge, Michael Ayrton, Grayson Perry and others. The Fry Art Gallery is home to the North West Essex Collection, a set of more than 3,000 works by diverse, nationally important artists who have lived or worked in the area.