About us

Camden Art Centre is a place for art and artists; a place for the curious, the novice and the expert alike

It’s a place to see, to make, to learn and to talk about contemporary art, whether in our building, attending off-site projects or via our digital forums.

Camden Art Centre was originally built as a public library and now combines historic architecture with open, modern spaces, a café, bookshop and secluded garden, with free entry for all. Through our programme of exhibitions, learning, courses, events and residencies, we invite everyone to engage with art and the people that make it – to push boundaries and connect to their own creativity. Our off-site projects share our work with diverse communities and our digital, publishing and broadcast platforms help us connect art, artists and people in ever more immediate and interesting ways.

As a charity rooted in our North West London community, we foster a sense of belonging in our spaces. Working closely with local schools, community groups and specialist partners we nurture the next generation of artists, from early years to adulthood, enabling everyone to get up close to art, to meet artists and to make work themselves. Our targeted programmes and sector leadership increase our impact, bringing the arts to those most in need.

Much loved by our communities, for over 50 years Camden Art Centre has always worked ahead of the curve, giving early support and exposure to important artists from the UK and abroad including Martin Creed, Kerry James Marshall, Kara Walker, Sophie Calle, Yinka Shonibare, Mike Nelson and Mary Heilmann.  We support artists at every stage of their careers, enabling them to make and show work that is relevant for today: brave, challenging, engaging and vital.