Now that our secon exhibition at Chequer House is up and running, we can take time to look back on our successful first exhibition.

From a huge response to visitors selecting a favourite work, Maxine Byron came in first with her work Fiery Sky, Izzy Wingham was second with Presbytery at Whitby Abbey and C Julian Bull was third with Crows and Moon.

On Thursday 6th February students from the College of West Anglia visited our exhibition. Lecturers, tutors and support staff alike commented on what they saw.
Here are a selection:

1. “I love the variety of mediums on display! It’s inspiring to see such a mix of painting, sculpture, print, digital, and textiles.”

2. “I was blown away by the variety,”

3. “The lighting really enhances the textures and colours of the artwork—everything looks so vibrant!”

4. “It’s amazing to see local artists being highlighted in such a professional setting.”

5. “More student-led tours or artist talks would make the gallery feel more accessible.”

6. “I wish there were more interactive or digital elements to complement the traditional artworks.”

7. “This gallery makes me want to create—it’s such an inspiring space!”

8. “I could spend hours here studying the techniques used in these paintings.”

9. “I love how this gallery feels welcoming, not intimidating—it encourages discussion as well as silent admiration.”

10. “Seeing such different styles and techniques side-by-side really broadened my perspective on what art can be. It wasn’t just about pretty pictures; it was about stories, emotions, and perceptions.”

11. “The Schumann Cabinet is rather cute, I really like the small pieces of art.”

12. “I love how the Gallery supports local artists. It feels like a real hub for Norfolk’s creative community.”

13. “The natural light in the gallery makes such a difference—the artworks look stunning in this space.”

14. “A beautiful and welcoming space”.

15. “It was cool to walk down the corridor and view art as you come in before you get to the actual gallery. It created a build up and anticipation of what was to come”

16. “The way the gallery is laid out makes it easy to engage with each piece without feeling overwhelmed.”

17. “Didn’t like the Schuman cabinet, so old, stuffy and boring! Even painting it white would make it more attractive and make the art stand out.”

18. “I appreciate how approachable this gallery feels. Some places can be intimidating, but here, I feel comfortable exploring and discussing the art.”

19. “The reading area was pretty amazing, so many books!”

20. “It’s ignited my creativity.”

21. “It would be great to have artist statements or insights into their creative process alongside the artworks.”

22. I loved the Trojan Bull! It was incredibly creative, imaginative and clever. The horns were funny and cool.”

23. “The toilet throne with the crests was pretty awesome, made me wonder who sat in it and what period in time.”

24. “Visiting Chequer House was an eye-opening experience!”

25. “The artwork gave us so much inspiration for our own projects.”

26. “I’d love to see more interactive elements—maybe a sketching area or a space where visitors can respond to the artworks.”

27. “A student showcase or collaboration with the college would be an amazing way to involve young artists.”

28. “The gallery could host artist talks or workshops to give deeper insight into the works on display.”

29. “The out of order toilets coming in looked naff. So off putting!”

30. “It would be great to have a digital catalogue or QR codes to learn more about the artists after visiting. And delve into their creative process and inspiration.”

31. “QR codes to get more info plz”.

32. “Seeing Norfolk-based artists represented here makes me feel more connected to the local creative scene.”

33. “Hearing the staff talk was transformative!”

34. “This space makes me want to create! The energy here is really motivating for an art student.”

35. “I love how accessible the gallery feels—there’s a real warmth to the way art is presented here.”

36. “The exhibitions make me think differently about art—it’s not just about technique, but also about storytelling and emotion.”

37. “I’m definitely coming back to see the next exhibition.”

38. “I could easily spend a whole afternoon here, just exploring the textures, colours, and details in each piece.”

39. “This gallery is a hidden gem! More students should come here to experience what Norfolk artists are creating.”