Spacex (art gallery)


Spacex was a contemporary art organisation, located in Exeter, between 1974 and 2017. It was founded in 1974 by John Butler as an artist co-operative. Its programme spanned installations, performance, photography, sculpture, painting, film and video. Its learning programme focused on helping visitors of all ages to explore and engage with contemporary art.
Spacex ceased activity at the end of 2017 with the formal closure of the charity.

Origin and aims

Spacex was located in a converted 19th century warehouse, midway between Exeter Cathedral and Exeter quayside. It was established in 1974 by an artists’ co-operative. The original purpose was to offer affordable studio and exhibition space to local artists. In the early 1990s, Spacex became a registered charity and a publicly funded space showing contemporary art free of charge.
Collaboration was at the heart of Spacex. The gallery's role in working with innovative local, national and international artists has been recognised by the Arts Council. Historically Spacex has put on 5-6 exhibitions a year, but in the 2010s it began to adopt a more diverse approach which includes more events and more flexible use of the space by artists.

Learning programme and events

Spacex' programme encouraged engagement with the latest developments in contemporary art through commissions, projects and activities. Work also took place outside of 45 Preston St through artist-led projects, events and research. In addition to organising events such as these, Spacex had a significant learning programme, working with students of all ages from local schools and further/higher education institutions.

Selected artists