Cardiff is for (art) lovers

Exploring a new city is one of the greatest parts of being a new student in a new city. Luckily, Cardiff has plenty for those who enjoy the art and culture of a city. One part of this is the endless options of galleries to visit in Cardiff and its surrounding areas. Below is an insight into, what I consider to be, the best galleries to visit in Cardiff. Take note of how to spend a day there and why these galleries are so perfect for students to visit.

National Museum Cardiff 

Located just minutes away from the main campus, the National Museum is a familiar sight for many Cardiff University Students. This is your sign to pop in the next time you walk past. The upstairs galleries host rotating free and paid expeditions. On until January 2025, the Art of the Selfie exhibit is a must-see, including work from Van Gogh, Rembrandt and Francis Bacon. Furthermore, until November 2025, there is a free The Valleys expedition, displaying the work of global artists that have been influenced by South Wales.

Cardiff Made

A popular part of the student community in Roath, CardiffMade describes itself as a curator of “the latest of Welsh creative talent”. CardiffMade hosts several events and regularly changing expeditions, such as the current ‘Blaguro’ expedition of graduate work from Fine Arts courses in Wales until 6th July 2024. There is regularly featured work from local artists that feature local spots which make for perfect mementoes. Furthermore, their store includes art for a student budget, including postcards and prints, to enable students to help support the art in a realistic and rewarding way.

West Wharf Gallery 

West Wharf Gallery, located on the top floor of the Jacobs Antiques building near Cardiff Central, you could spend an entire day exploring the antiques on the floors below and checking out the roof garden above. While the gallery is smaller, the staff is friendly and open to answering your questions and discussing the works displayed. On the ground floor of the building, there is a coffee shop called Coffi Clwb that offers independent speciality coffee and events, the perfect end to your visit.

Chapter Art Centre 

Finally, Chapter Art Centre is a cultural space that hosts an array of international art and films. This includes commissioned expeditions, fostering diverse perspectives and insights into new arenas of thought. The gallery is also open to a number of events. Perfect for the student budget, there are many free events and a student discount available for paid tickets, with a valid NUS card. Chapter Art Centre is a great community and arts hub to explore during your time as a student at Cardiff.