A New Creative Space at Pensthorpe
Pensthorpe’s brand new art gallery brings together nature, creativity and inspiration in a beautiful new space at the heart of the reserve. The gallery is free to visit and open during normal Pensthorpe opening hours.
Created by Norfolk artist Claire Frances Smith, founder of the Art Academy, the gallery offers visitors the opportunity to discover original artwork and fine art prints inspired by the landscapes, wildlife and natural beauty of Norfolk and beyond.
Designed to feel welcoming and accessible, the gallery moves away from the traditional white-wall experience. Instead, artwork is thoughtfully displayed in an interiors-inspired setting, allowing visitors to imagine how pieces might look within their own homes while enjoying a relaxed and inspiring environment.
Whether you’re looking to invest in original artwork, find a special gift or simply enjoy something different during your visit, Pensthorpe’s Art Gallery offers a unique creative experience for visitors of all ages.
Meet Claire Frances Smith
Claire Frances Smith is a Norfolk-based artist with more than four decades of professional experience. As founder of the Art Academy, she has spent over 15 years teaching and mentoring artists while continuing to develop her own distinctive collection of contemporary paintings.
Drawing inspiration from the natural world, Claire’s work captures the colours, textures and atmosphere of landscapes, coastlines and wildlife, making her partnership with Pensthorpe a natural fit.
Her vision for the gallery is simple: to create a space where people can enjoy art without feeling intimidated, discover new inspiration and connect with creativity in an informal and welcoming setting.
Visit the Gallery
Claire’s Gallery is free to visit, is open during normal opening hours and is located in our old discovery centre building.
Located alongside our café and gift shop, it’s the perfect place to browse beautiful artwork, discover unique gifts, and enjoy a coffee and slice of cake in relaxing surroundings.
Whether you’re searching for inspiration, looking for the perfect piece for your home, or simply enjoying a day out, we invite you to explore this exciting new addition to Pensthorpe where art and nature come together.
