The gallery holds a varied collection of works with a strong focus on landscape, including paintings by Joseph Wright of Derby, Thomas Jones, Alfred Wallis, Edward Wadsworth, Christopher Wood, Eric Ravilious and Peter Lanyon.
The modern collection has notable works by Vanessa Bell, David Bomberg, Alan Davie, Henry Moore, Victor Pasmore and Pablo Picasso. Many recent acquisitions of contemporary work have been in the areas of film and video including notable pieces by Wolfgang Tillmans, Julian Opie, Roni Horn, Tacita Dean and Anya Gallaccio.
Exhibitions from the permanent collection are complemented by the gallery’s programme of temporary exhibitions, showing a range of excellent contemporary work.
Guest editor’s note:
Towner boasts over four thousand artworks housed on site. Enjoy the noon tour. Walk through its beautiful raw polished concrete and glass construction or take the lift shared by the artworks, where, as you ascend, a window onto the town’s landscape is revealed. The top floor café boasts spectacular views across the Sussex Downs. Look at the side of this building to appreciate the wonderful modern design.
Reviewed by Jane Lyster