Aspex Gallery, Portsmouth

Aspex Gallery has been a contemporary art center since its founding in 1981. Initially launched in a converted chapel in Southsea, it evolved from "Art Space Exhibitions" into a fully independent charity in the early 1990s. In 2006, Aspex relocated to the Vulcan Building-a former Royal Navy storehouse-retaining its naval heritage while earning accolades such as a Royal Institute of British Architects Award for its thoughtful transformation.

Today, Aspex is a cultural nucleus, offering diverse exhibitions by emerging and mid-career artists from the UK and beyond. Visitors can explore two distinct gallery spaces, enjoy engaging artist-led workshops, attend late-night events, and shop for unique prints and exhibitions. The on-site café provides a perfect pause point, where you can enjoy locally sourced refreshments while reflecting on the artworks.

Over its four-decade lifespan, Aspex has launched the careers of notable talents such as Richard Wilson and Helen Chadwick-the latter's influential "Ego Geometria Sum" installation now resides in the Tate collection. The gallery consistently champions bold, experimental work-its Emergency open submission exhibitions have introduced many rising artists, and landmark public projects like the giant "Ultrasauros" dinosaur installation demonstrated its community engagement reach.