We get asked all kinds of questions at Bankside Gallery - but there are a few in particular that we hear more often than others. Below we have compiled a list of our FAQ's, which we hope will help to clear some things up. If we haven't answered your question, drop us an email at info@banksidegallery.com, or give us a call on 020 7928 7521. We would be more than happy to help!
Is Bankside Gallery free to enter?
Yes, Bankside Gallery is free and open to all.
Do I need to book?
No, there is no need to book your visit to Bankside Gallery.
What are Bankside Gallery's opening hours?
Bankside Gallery is open daily 11am - 6pm during exhibition times.
Where is Bankside Gallery?
Bankside Gallery is based in London, situated on the Thames Path directly in between Tate Modern and Blackfriars Station, and opposite the Founders Arms Pub. Our nearest tube stations are Southwark (Jubilee Line), Blackfriars (Thameslink, Circle & District Lines) and London Bridge (Northern & Jubilee Lines). Plan your journey to Bankside Gallery here.
When did Bankside Gallery open?
Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II graciously opened Bankside Gallery on 11 November 1980. Bankside Gallery was at the forefront of the creation of a new cultural quarter, joined first by the Globe Theatre in 1997 and subsequently by Tate Modern in 2000 as well as many other brilliant cultural organisations since. Find out more about our history here.
How can I sign up to Bankside Gallery's mailing list?
To keep up to date with all of the latest news, exhibitions, offers and events at Bankside Gallery, you can sign up to our mailing list here.
Does Bankside Gallery have a Bookshop?
We do indeed! Bankside Gallery has a wonderful and carefully curated bookshop that includes interesting publications on the arts in general, together with an extensive selection of stylish and unusual greetings cards.
Is Bankside Gallery wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Bankside Gallery and Bookshop are accessible by ramp. Unfortunately, our toilets are not wheelchair accessible.
When are Bankside Gallery’s busiest times?
Bankside Gallery is busiest between 12pm - 4pm.
Is Bankside Gallery dog-friendly?
Yes! Bankside Gallery is dog-friendly.
How can I buy art in Bankside Gallery?
We have a bustling programme of selling exhibitions at Bankside Gallery and a permanent display of unframed artworks in our browsers - so whenever you choose to visit, there’s sure to be something that takes your fancy. If you wish to make a purchase in person or have any questions, simply ask one of our friendly members of staff at the front desk.
Can I buy art online through Bankside Gallery?
We have many paintings and original prints available to buy unframed in our Online Store. Artworks will be posted directly from the artist within 3 working days and delivered straight to your door (delivery is free within the UK).
To purchase an artwork online from one of our exhibitions, give us a call on 020 7928 7521, or email us at: sales@banksidegallery.com. Make sure to quote the artwork title and artist name!
Does Bankside Gallery offer interest free loans for art?
Yes! Bankside Gallery is proud to be a member of the Own Art scheme. With this initiative, you can buy any artwork that costs between £100-£2,500, and pay it back in 10 interest free monthly instalments. Find out more about the Own Art scheme here.
How can I support Bankside Gallery?
As a registered educational charity in receipt of no government funding, Bankside Gallery relies on the ongoing support of our loyal customers. There are many ways in which you can help to support us in developing our exhibition and learning programmes, and improving our facilities, including becoming a Friend of Bankside Gallery and making a donation, either online or in person. And of course, don't forget that every artwork purchase helps to support our Gallery and our artists!
How can I exhibit my work at Bankside Gallery?
Bankside Gallery is home to two societies: the Royal Watercolour Society (RWS) and Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers (RE). The majority of the work that we feature and exhibit is by artists of these two societies. Any practicing artist working in water-based media or print can apply for RWS or RE membership respectively, both of whom run annual elections. You can find out more about this on their websites:
www.royalwatercoloursociety.co.uk/election
www.re-printmakers.com/election
The RWS and RE both also run annual international open-submission competitions: the RWS Open and the International Original Print Exhibition. Selected works are exhibited at Bankside Gallery! The RWS Open (formerly known as the Contemporary Watercolour Competition) is the largest open-submission water-media exhibition in the world. The International Original Print Exhibition, established by the RE, is an international open-submission exhibition celebrating the best of contemporary printmaking. You can find out more about these on our Opportunities page.
Can I hire Bankside Gallery for an exhibition or event?
Yes, Bankside Gallery is available for exhibition hire and evening event hire. Bankside gallery attracts over 55,000 visitors per year, and is an ideal space for a wide range of solo and group shows. The mood of the Gallery is cool and spacious, with a crisp and contemporary design. See our image gallery here.
The space is also perfect for a drinks reception for up to 200 guests. There are no tied caterers, but we can offer recommendations. Find out more about venue hire at Bankside Gallery here.
Hopefully we've managed to cover most of your burning questions - but if not, simply drop us an email at info@banksidegallery.com, or give us a call on 020 7928 7521.
More like this on the Bankside Blog...
Read: Printmaking Techniques Explained: What exactly is an 'original print'?
Read: 42 Years of Bankside Gallery
Read: What is the Own Art Scheme?
Read: 5 things you may not know about the Royal Watercolour Society
Read: What does 'RE' mean anyway?
