Camden Art Centre
London Learn more about what's on at Camden Art Centre and the artists shaping its programme.Camden Art Centre is a leading contemporary visual arts organisation in Hampstead, North London, housed in a Grade II-listed former public library at the corner of Arkwright Road and Finchley Road, NW3. Camden Art Centre was founded in 1965 as Hampstead Arts Centre, renamed Camden Arts Centre in 1967, and today is known for its programme of exhibitions, residencies, and art education. It has built an international reputation for connecting people to contemporary visual art through free exhibitions and public programmes.
The Centre occupies a historic Victorian building designed by Arnold Taylor and opened in 1897 as Hampstead Central Library. Following major refurbishment in the early 2000s, the site combines original architecture with a café, bookshop, garden and daylight‑filled gallery spaces, making Camden Art Centre a distinctive cultural destination in North London.
Camden Art Centre presents a changing programme of contemporary art exhibitions, artist residencies, and learning initiatives that encourage experimentation and public engagement. Past exhibitions have introduced London audiences to artists including Hilma af Klint (2006), Kerry James Marshall (2005), Kara Walker (2013) and Martin Wong, underscoring the Centre’s role in showcasing significant international artists. Set within a leafy garden and featuring a café, specialist bookshop, studios and public spaces, Camden Art Centre offers an intimate setting to see, make and talk about art in London.
Camden Art Centre FAQs
Where is Camden Art Centre located?
Camden Art Centre is located at Arkwright Road, London NW3, at the corner of Finchley Road in Hampstead, North London. The art centre is easy to include in a day out in Hampstead, and visitors are advised to check local public transport information when planning their journey.
Who designed Camden Art Centre’s building?
The building now occupied by Camden Art Centre is a Victorian library designed by architect Arnold Taylor and opened in 1897 as Hampstead Central Library. It was transformed into an arts centre in the 1960s and later underwent major refurbishment, led by architect Tony Fretton, to support gallery and learning use and improve public access..
What kind of art does Camden Art Centre focus on?
Camden Art Centre focuses on contemporary visual art, presented through temporary exhibitions, artist residencies and public programmes. The Centre supports both emerging and established international artists, including London firsts for figures such as Hilma af Klint, Kerry James Marshall and Kara Walker, and commissions projects that encourage experimentation and dialogue across media.
When was Camden Art Centre founded?
Camden Art Centre was founded in 1965 as Hampstead Arts Centre and renamed Camden Arts Centre in 1967. Since then, it has evolved into a recognised venue in London for contemporary art exhibitions, artist residencies and art education programmes.
What are Camden Art Centre’s opening hours?
Camden Art Centre is usually open Tuesday to Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm, and may offer extended opening hours on selected evenings. Opening times can change for installation periods or special events, so visitors should always check the Camden Art Centre website for the latest gallery, café and garden hours before visiting.
Artworks by Camden Art Centre Artists
More London Museums and Galleries
A respected voice in contemporary art discourse.
Focusing on ambitious storytelling and insightful art-world commentary. Ocula Magazine publishes in-depth interviews, critical essays and timely analysis on the artists, exhibitions and ideas driving the global art world.
Learn more about Ocula Magazine
Showcasing the best of the art world.
Ocula partners with galleries from around the world to highlight their artists, artworks and exhibitions. Gallery membership is by application and invitation, with each member vetted by an independent panel.
Learn more about Ocula Membership
Specialises in the sale of major artworks.
Led by a team with deep ties to the world’s leading auction houses, galleries and collectors. Ocula’s advisory team offers bespoke services to high-net-worth clients from around the world who are looking to acquire the best of contemporary and modern art.
Learn more about our team and services