The ultimate guide to art in Belfast - where to go and what to see
By Laura Fullerton
Published 21st Mar 2023, 18:08 BST
Belfast is home to some of the most famous artists in Northern Ireland, as well as providing a vibrant scene for emerging individuals to let their creative side roam free.
In such a rich cultural city, there are plenty of different art forms to see and learn about, from art exhibitions and galleries to workshops and performing arts.
There is something for everyone to enjoy, whether you’re new to discovering the industry or are a self-declared art-aficionado.
Our ultimate guide to art in Belfast covers great places to visit in every corner of the capital, for both artists and art-lovers alike.
Additional reporting by Maisie Laughton
Our ultimate guide to art in Belfast covers great places to visit in every corner of the capital, for both artists and art-lovers alike.
33. The Naughton Gallery at Queen’s Queen’s University Belfast - University Road
The Naughton Gallery is located at Queen’s University in the Lanyon Building, having been established in 2001 as a means of showcasing the university’s permanent collection including gifts, bequests and purchases made dating back to 1845. It promotes diversity, inclusivity and artistic excellence through their art pieces and are open six days a week with free admission. For more information go to naughtongallery.org Photo: The Naughton Gallery website
34. Platform Arts - Connswater Shopping Centre, 17-18 Bloomfield Avenue
Platform Arts is an artist-led studio group and contemporary art gallery inside the Connswater Shopping Centre. It is committed to widening access to contemporary art and actively promote creative expression, presentation and access to contemporary art practises through their Exhibition, Education and Studio Programme. For more information go to platformartsbelfast.com Photo: Alan Lafferty
35. QSS The Arches Centre -11-13 Bloomfield Avenue
QSS was established in 1984 as a result of no studio provisions, gallery accessibility or art suppliers in Belfast, housing a contemporary studio for up to 37 artists with a public programme of activities to promote engagement with art and creativity. Visitor opening hours are from Tuesday to Thursday from 10am-5pm with events held frequently such as “Emergence VI” and “Oscillate Quietly - A Solo Exhibition by Clare French”. For more information go to queenstreetstudios.net Photo: QSS Studios and Gallery website
36. Ulster Museum - Botanic Gardens
Ulster Museum showcases international touring exhibitions as well as the museum's vast collection of historical, scientific and contemporary material dating back to the early 1600s. It has seasonal opening hours and currently is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10am-5pm, previously holding events such as Irish Art exhibitions, historical and scientific discussions and storytelling. For more information go to ulstermuseum.org Photo: Ulster Mueseum website