Watts Gallery was founded in 1904 by visionary couple George Frederic (G F) Watts and Mary Seton Watts. Artists and social pioneers, G F and Mary initially relocated to Compton from West London having built Limnerslease as a winter retreat.
G F was one of the foremost artists of the 19th century and became known as 'England's Michelangelo' for his powerful works and portraits. Mary, a visionary designer and artist, founded Potters' Arts Guild at Compton, a progressive business with the aim to promote traditional craft practices and create jobs for the local community.
G F and Mary shared an enduring conviction that art has the power to inspire and transform lives. We proudly continue their work.
Today, we are more than just a gallery. We curate and care for an extraordinary collection of art, we host a dynamic range of temporary exhibitions, and offer an inspiring year-round programme of talks, tours, workshops, and courses. We actively support contemporary artists through our artist-in-residence programme and host our "Art for All" community programme, continuing the ethos of our artist-founders.
As a registered independent charity the generosity of our visitors and supporters helps to fund our mission. Your support enables us to safeguard our collection, protect our buildings and care for our grounds. It makes it possible for us to work with community groups, schools and organisations and make art available for all. Most of our income comes from fundraising and donations. So each time you visit us - whether you're grabbing a coffee, buying a gift or attending an event - you're directly helping us to continue our work. Our mission is made possible by the generous support of our visitors, shoppers, Friends, Patrons, donors, volunteers and supporters.
One of the best ways to support us is to become a Friend. Find out more here
We honour the legacy of our founders, G F and Mary Watts, and their belief that art can transform lives. Continuing our founders' belief, everything we do at Watts Gallery is founded on this social purpose.
Art for all by all
To be a creative home for our local community
We are delighted to announce that the Watts Gallery is recognised under the Arts Council’s UK Museum Accreditation Scheme. We have been accredited for excelling in the fundamental requirements of a museum, such as the management of our collection, our engagement with visitors and our governance. Our thanks go to everyone who has made this possible.