After years of planning, determination and a lifelong passion for art, a new chapter has begun for Essex’s contemporary art scene. This summer saw the opening of TAP Contemporary, our brand-new gallery in the heart of Chelmsford, bringing an ambitious new destination for original contemporary art to the county.
For me, as the gallery’s founder, the opening marks the realisation of a vision that began more than six years ago.
In 2019, I discovered an incredible space in Chelmsford and immediately knew it had the potential to become something special. Like many plans, the project was paused during the pandemic, but I never let go of the dream. In 2024, I revisited the idea and began the journey of bringing it to life. After two years of planning, negotiations and assembling the right team, I am incredibly proud to welcome visitors to TAP Contemporary.
The gallery is the latest chapter in the story of TAP Galleries, which first began with Interior Angle in The Meadows Shopping Centre in Chelmsford in 1994.
Over more than three decades, we have earned a reputation for introducing collectors to exceptional contemporary artists, combining expert knowledge with a genuine passion for original art.
Designed to offer an immersive experience, TAP Contemporary has been created to bring the atmosphere of an international gallery to Essex.
The light-filled space encourages visitors to slow down, explore and enjoy carefully curated collections of contemporary paintings, sculpture and mixed-media works in surroundings designed to be more reminiscent of New York’s celebrated gallery districts than a traditional high street gallery.
The gallery represents a carefully selected collection of established British artists whose careers I have followed and supported throughout my 33 years in the art world.
Every artwork has been independently created by the artists themselves, giving collectors the opportunity to acquire truly original pieces rather than pick up mass-produced editions.
Alongside leading British artists, TAP Contemporary will also introduce exclusive works by contemporary European artists, many of whom will be exhibiting in Chelmsford for the first time.
(Image: TAP Galleries)
An ambitious programme of exhibitions and special events is already planned for the gallery’s inaugural season. In October, TAP Contemporary will host the finalists of the nationally recognised Women in Art Prize, founded and led by Gabrielle du Plooy. The initiative celebrates and champions women artists, providing an important platform for both emerging and established talent while addressing the continuing underrepresentation of women within the art world. The exhibition will run for two weeks, bringing a significant contemporary art showcase from London’s vibrant gallery scene to Chelmsford and giving local audiences the opportunity to discover some of the country’s most exciting female artists.
In November, we will welcome photographer David Koppel for a special book launch event, giving visitors the opportunity to meet the artist and celebrate the publication of his latest work.
As TAP Contemporary opens its doors, we are inviting visitors to discover the inaugural exhibition and experience a fresh destination for contemporary art in Chelmsford.
Whether they are seasoned collectors or simply curious to explore original art, we hope that the gallery offers a welcoming space dedicated to celebrating contemporary creativity and introducing exceptional artists to Essex audiences..
TAP Contemporary is located at 1 Waterhouse Court, Victoria Road South, Chelmsford CM1 1LN.
For further information, exhibition details and event invitations, visit the gallery’s website at: turnerartperspective.com or follow @tap_art_gallery
