Penzance's Exchange Gallery is a major contemporary art space that opened in 2007 in conjunction with renovations to the historic Newlyn Art Gallery.
Designed by McInnes Usher McKnight Architects, following an architectural design competition, the gallery occupies a former telephone exchange and features a strking glass facade that runs the entire length of the building. A dramatic changing light display designed by Penwith-based artist, Peter Freeman, illuminates the glass panels according to the exhibitions and the seasons.
The huge space retains the industrial feel of the original telephone exchange and features a large T-shaped gallery showing national and international contemporary art, plus work by some of the best local artists. The gallery is also used as a project space, where artists and curators can test new ideas and run workshops, film screenings, live performances and community events.
The Exchange Gallery is located off the historic Chapel Street, within easy walking distance of the bus and train stations. There is also a reasonably-priced cafe and shop.
