Modern Art Oxford: A Hub of Contemporary Creativity in the Heart of Oxford
Discover ever-changing contemporary art, immersive experiences, and creative community events at Modern Art Oxford.
Modern Art Oxford is a dynamic contemporary art gallery located at 30 Pembroke Street, Oxford. Open Tuesday to Sunday, it offers a rotating program of cutting-edge exhibitions, live events, and creative workshops. The gallery features accessible spaces including upper galleries, a ground floor gallery, a café designed by artist Emma Hart, and a studio for hands-on activities. It is a vibrant cultural venue welcoming all ages and interests with free entry to most areas and ticketed special exhibitions.
A brief summary to Modern Art Oxford
- 30 Pembroke St, Oxford, OX1 1BP, GB
- +441865722733
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday afternoons for a quieter experience and more space to explore the exhibitions.
- Check the gallery’s website for current exhibitions and ticketed events to plan your visit accordingly.
- Take advantage of free curator-led tours offered regularly to deepen your understanding of the artworks.
- Enjoy a break in the basement café, an immersive artwork space with locally sourced food and drinks.
- Explore the shop for unique gifts and artworks by independent makers, perfect for souvenirs.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train
From Oxford Railway Station, it is a 12 to 15-minute walk to Modern Art Oxford. The route is mostly flat and accessible, making it convenient for most travelers. No ticket is required for this short walk.
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Bus
Several bus routes stop near Westgate Shopping Centre, adjacent to Modern Art Oxford. Bus journeys from central Oxford or surrounding areas typically take 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. Tickets cost approximately £2 to £4 GBP.
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Car
Visitors arriving by car can use the Westgate car park nearby. Parking fees apply, generally around £2 to £4 GBP per hour. Note that central Oxford has restricted traffic zones, so check local regulations before driving.
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Walking
If staying in central Oxford, walking to Modern Art Oxford is easy and pleasant, taking about 10 to 20 minutes depending on your starting point. The terrain is flat and accessible, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
Modern Art Oxford location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Modern Art Oxford
Contemporary Art at the Forefront of Oxford's Cultural Scene
Modern Art Oxford stands as a beacon of contemporary creativity in the city, showcasing a diverse range of exhibitions that change regularly to highlight both emerging and established artists. The gallery does not maintain a permanent collection, allowing it to continuously refresh its offerings and surprise visitors with new perspectives and artistic innovations. Its exhibitions often explore themes relevant to society and technology, exemplified by recent shows such as Suzanne Treister's 'Prophetic Dreaming' which delves into alternative futures.Architectural Layout and Visitor Experience
Housed in a modern building on the corner of Pembroke and St Ebbes Streets, the gallery is thoughtfully designed for accessibility and visitor comfort. The three floors include a welcoming ground floor with a shop, digital screens, and gallery space; upper galleries accessed by stairs or lift; and a basement café that doubles as an immersive artwork. The layout encourages exploration and reflection, with clear signage and staff support enhancing the experience. Photography is permitted without flash, encouraging visitors to capture their engagement with the art.A Vibrant Program of Events and Community Engagement
Beyond exhibitions, Modern Art Oxford is a lively venue for events including curator-led tours, live music, workshops, and social gatherings such as the Young Creatives Socials. These activities foster community involvement and creative expression across all ages, with special programs for children and young adults. The gallery also hosts private tours and group visits, making it a versatile space for education and celebration.Café and Shop: Creative Spaces to Relax and Discover
The basement café, designed by artist Emma Hart, offers a unique sensory experience with its interplay of color, light, and shadow, alongside locally sourced food and drinks. This space invites visitors to relax and socialize in an artistic environment. Adjacent to the café, the shop features a curated selection of gifts, artworks, and products by independent makers, providing meaningful mementos and supporting local artisans.Accessibility and Practical Information
Modern Art Oxford is committed to inclusivity, with step-free access via St Ebbes Street and a wheelchair-accessible lift at Pembroke Street. Facilities include accessible toilets and baby changing areas. The gallery is conveniently located near Oxford Railway Station and bus stops, with parking available at the nearby Westgate car park. Opening hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 11am to 6pm, with shorter hours on Sunday and closure on Monday.Engagement with Oxford’s Artistic Future
The gallery actively supports emerging talent through initiatives like The Platform Graduate Award, showcasing promising artists from the South. Its studio space offers creative workshops and sensory play, encouraging visitors to engage directly with art-making processes. This dedication to nurturing creativity ensures Modern Art Oxford remains a vital and evolving cultural institution.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
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For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
