What's on - Exhibitions
Choose a date range:
Reset date range
Explore our current and upcoming exhibitions below.
You can also view previous exhibitions presented at Firstsite in our Exhibition Archive
Firstsite’s artistic programme is generously supported by the following people and organisations: The Coode-Adams Firstsite Trust, Trevor Fenwick, Art Fund and The Firstsite Collectors’ Group
Exhibitions
Free
Tim Noble & Sue Webster: Love and Hate at Firstsite
Thursday 09 November 2023 - Tuesday 30 September 2025
In this presentation, seven light sculptures by Noble & Webster illuminate areas of the Firstsite building with pops of glimmering colour.
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
Nicola Burrell: Concrete Dreams
Saturday 20 April 2024 - Sunday 20 April 2025
Discover Colchester-based artist Nicola Burrell’s vibrant three-dimensional artworks and sculptures inspired by New Towns in Essex.
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
Jane Ostler: Finding the Hand of Kindness
Saturday 12 October 2024 - Sunday 02 March 2025
“Finding The Hand of Kindness” is inspired by Jane’s own life, reflecting on her roles as a caregiver, the impact of patriarchal expectations, and the everyday moments of kindness. Through her art, Jane invites us to see how creativity can be a source of comfort and connection.
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
Leonora Carrington: Avatars & Alliances
Saturday 26 October 2024 - Sunday 09 March 2025
Step into the magical and mystical world of Leonora Carrington, the British-Mexican painter and novelist, in her debut exhibition in the East of England.
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
Halla Groves-Raines: Life in Patterns
Saturday 16 November 2024 - Sunday 20 April 2025
Discover fresh perspectives from modern Essex and Suffolk through the faces and stories of its residents in an intimate portrait exhibition by Essex-based artist Halla Groves-Raines.
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
Opening Celebration | University Centre Colchester (UCC): Legacy
Friday 07 March 2025
Come be a part of an exciting evening as we celebrate the creativity and talent of Colchester’s next generation of artists at the opening of the University Centre Colchester (UCC): Legacy exhibition!
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
University Centre Colchester (UCC): Legacy
Saturday 08 March - Sunday 15 June 2025
In partnership with Colchester Institute, we’re proud to present the UCC: Legacy exhibition, featuring an exciting selection of multimedia works by second and third-year students from University Centre Colchester (UCC).
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
Opening Celebration | Elsa James: It Should Not Be Forgotten
Friday 28 March 2025
Join us for a special evening event to celebrate the opening of ‘It Should Not Be Forgotten’, Elsa James’s first solo exhibition at Firstsite!
Find out moreExhibitions
Free
Elsa James: It Should Not Be Forgotten
Saturday 29 March - Sunday 06 July 2025
Join Essex artist Elsa James in examining the heart of Britain’s colonial past and its lasting impact on Black life today.
Find out more