The final exhibition in Ipswich's landmark Constable 250 programme will open at Christchurch Mansion this autumn, showcasing how John Constable's work continues to inspire creativity, community and artistic expression today.
Constable to Contemporary, running from 24 October 2026 to 28 February 2027, will highlight the artistic and cultural relevance of Constable's art through a range of contemporary and community responses developed throughout the anniversary year.
The exhibition will feature work created through a variety of engagement opportunities, celebrating contributions from Constable 250 community partners, participating schools and local organisations. It will provide a final opportunity for residents and visitors to reflect on and celebrate the year-long programme marking the 250th anniversary of the artist's birth.
Among the highlights will be a new collection of mixed-media artworks produced by Suffolk Artlink's Brave Art Groups, which supports adults with learning disabilities. Visitors will also experience an immersive installation created by young people working with Community Hub Ipswich (CHIp).
The exhibition will follow the success of The Hay Wain: Walking Constable's Landscape, which remains open until Sunday 4 October. It has attracted more than 11,000 visitors so far, since opening at Christchurch Mansion on 11 July. The exhibition, is centred around Constable's iconic masterpiece The Hay Wain, has become one of the most popular and acclaimed displays staged at the Mansion in recent years.
Councillor Carole Jones, Ipswich Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning and Museums, said:
"Constable 250 has been a wonderful celebration of one of Suffolk's most influential artists, bringing together world-class artworks, local communities and thousands of visitors - from across the region and beyond.
“Constable to Contemporary is the perfect way to conclude this important anniversary year, demonstrating how Constable's legacy continues to inspire creativity and connect people today, 250 years after his birth in East Bergholt.
“Also, if you haven’t already, I urge everyone to get to Christchurch Mansion before The Hay Wain: Walking Constable’s Landscape exhibition closes on 4 October!”
The Constable 250 programme has explored the life, work and enduring influence of John Constable through a series of major exhibitions, events and community activities across the year. It is supported by National Lottery players through The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and the Weston Loan Programme with Art Fund, Arts Council England, Paul Mellon Centre, Babergh District Council, the Friends of the Ipswich Museums, Kerseys LLP and East Anglia Art Fund.
Visitors can find out more and pre-book tickets for Constable to Contemporary at: Constable 250 Exhibitions | Ipswich Museums.