Welcome to Colchester, and to Firstsite!

We are a contemporary visual arts organisation where you can experience the most exciting developments in contemporary art, and explore the rich artistic legacy cultivated by the East of England’s unique landscape and character.

Firstsite is made to be enjoyed by everyone, however visiting anywhere new can be daunting. Our friendly and relaxed team are here to welcome you, and answer any questions.

To celebrate Freshers Fortnight, we’ve put together a range of special student offers, events and activities!

From newly released and classic films, art exhibitions and supplies, lattes and community, discover everything happening between Tue 30 Sep – Sat 11 Oct!

Most offers will be available throughout the full two weeks of Freshers Fortnight, unless stated otherwise.

Don’t forget to bring your student ID with you to make the most of all our Freshers Fortnight at Firstsite offers!

Freshers Fortnight at Firstsite Activities To Discover

Cinema

Enjoy great films for less with our Student Freshers Ticket Offer!

From Tue 30 Sep – Tue 7 Oct experience any of our standard film screenings for just £5.

See what’s on in the Cinema!

Café

Take a break in our Foyer and Berryfield cafés with our 2-for-1 offer on hot drinks and selected cold drinks.

Exhibitions & Events

On Thu 2 Oct we’ll be hosting student tours for our Voyager 2000: Worldbeing & Wonder? exhibition.

Find out more and secure your spot

You’re also welcome to drop by and explore Voyager 2000 and our other exhibitions at your own pace. Our Gallery Assistants are always happy to answer questions or offer a short personal tour if you’d like.

About the exhibition

Unlike many stories about technology that focus on risk, harm, or surveillance, this exhibition highlights how art and digital tools can support imagination, connection, education, and new opportunities for employment.

The Voyager 2000: Worldbeing & Wonder? exhibition will close on Sun 5 Oct. During this week we’ll be hosting a Closing Celebration filled with art, conversation and performance.

Shop

From characterful animal Legami pens to watercolour paint sets and sustainable tote bags, our shop has a wide selection of art supplies, stationery and accessories.

You’ll be able to enjoy 25% off our Art Supplies & Stationary and Bags range. This is your chance carry culture in style with our premium Firstsite logo Tote bag for only £7.50!

We’ll also be giving away 50 postcards! Simply visit our shop, ask for your freshers postcard and show your student ID to receive your keepsake.

Win 1 of 4 Pairs of Cinema Tickets

Follow us on Instagram or TikTok to take part in our Freshers Fortnight giveaway!

Simply tag a friend on our giveaway announcement post to be entered into the prize draw.

• Instagram: @firstsitecolchester
• TikTok: @firstsitecolchester

Entries must be submitted by 11:59pm BST on Sun, 12 Oct 2025. The competition is open to UK residents aged 18 and over.

4 winners will be selected at random from all eligible entries and notified via private message through either Instagram or TikTok on Wed, 15 Oct 2025. For more information please see our full terms and conditions.

Get Involved

There are lots of opportunities to create, connect and be part of a community at Firstsite:

Join YAK (Young Art Kommunity) to collaborate on art projects improve your confidence, explore your creativity and develop your voice. Our YAK group regularly exhibit their work in our gallery spaces through self-curated public exhibitions and featured contributions.

Volunteer as a Gallery Assistant, Cinema Usher or Holiday Fun helper. You’ll not only be able to gain experience and meet new people but also enjoy extra perks like exhibition preview tours!

Study and relax in our Mosaic Space or Cafés surrounded by inspirational creativity.

Find Us

We’re in the heart of Colchester City Centre, close to the Colchester bus and Colchester Town train stations.

Plus we’re open till late from Thu to Sun– perfect for evening films and events.