We recently had the most inspiring and creative family day at Firstsite Art Gallery in Colchester, and I just had to share our experience with you!
A Vibrant Cultural Hub
Firstsite is much more than just an art gallery - it’s a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the diverse and radical people of East Anglia. Established in 1993, Firstsite moved to its stunning building in 2011 and has since welcomed over 1 million visitors. The gallery offers a wide range of activities, from exhibitions and community events to talks, lectures, and Holiday Fun activities - there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a fun, family-friendly outing, Firstsite provides a space for creativity and inspiration.
A Stunning Space
The building itself is a piece of art, designed by renowned architect Rafael Vinoly. The curved structure leads visitors through stunning gallery and studio spaces, creating a dramatic and immersive environment that’s perfect for art, events, and community gatherings. The unique versatility of the space makes it an ideal destination for everything from exhibitions to live performances and workshops.
The Berryfield Mosaic
One of the most fascinating features of the gallery is the Berryfield Mosaic, which lies at the heart of Firstsite. Dating back to AD200, this stunning mosaic is embedded in the gallery's floor and is a must-see for all visitors. It's an incredible reminder of the long history of art in this region and adds another layer of depth to the overall experience.
A Creative Family Experience
During our visit, we had the chance to participate in an interactive activity that made us feel like part of the gallery’s creative world. Each of us received a piece of paper with simple lines drawn on it, and our task was to add our own drawings, colours, and personal touches to make the piece our own. It was such a fun way to engage with art as a family and tap into our own creativity. My son especially loved one of his creations (check out the photos below!), and it was wonderful to see how everyone expressed themselves in such unique ways. This truly made our family day at Firstsite Art Gallery a memorable and artistic experience.
In addition to this activity, I’m excited to share some of my favourite pieces of art from the gallery. These are the works that truly spoke to me, and I’ll be featuring them in the photos of this post. Each piece holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait for you to see what caught my eye during our visit!
A Collective Showcase
The best part? All the artwork, including ours, was displayed on the gallery wall as part of a collective showcase for everyone to enjoy. It was amazing to see the variety of ideas and artistic expressions coming together in one beautiful display.
Great Films at Firstsite
In addition to the galleries and exhibits, Firstsite also boasts a purpose-built cinema that screens a fantastic mix of films - from popular releases to cult classics, independent films, and art house cinema. The cinema also hosts live events, including theatre, ballet, opera, and music concerts, making it a perfect spot for film lovers and those looking to enjoy live performances.
A Hub for Art and Culture
Firstsite is a place where art and creativity come to life, and it’s a hub for cultural activities in the heart of Colchester. Whether you're visiting for an exhibition, participating in a community event, or enjoying a film screening, there’s always something happening at this incredible space.
Join the Conversation
Have you ever visited an art gallery where you could create your own piece of art? What would you draw or add to your paper if given the chance? Let me know in the comments below!
Thank You, Firstsite!
A big thank you to Firstsite for providing such a fun, engaging, and creative experience. If you’re in Colchester or planning to visit, this gallery is a must-see! From its stunning architecture and the historical Berryfield Mosaic to its amazing programme of exhibitions and films, Firstsite is a place where everyone can explore art and culture in a truly unique way.
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