20-21 Visual Arts Centre

Welcome to 20-21 Visual Arts Centre

Open today: 10am to 4pm

Housed in the beautifully restored former St. John's Church in Scunthorpe, 20-21 Visual Arts Centre is a vibrant hub for contemporary art, craft and design.

Since opening in 2001, we’ve built a reputation for showcasing diverse and ambitious exhibitions—around 20 each year across six gallery spaces. As an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, we’re proud to support underrepresented artists and bring inspiring cultural experiences to our community.

Exhibition

Lost Worlds by Luxmuralis

13 Oct 2026 - 17 Oct 2026 Coming soon

After the success and popularity of last year’s Science, 20-21 is thrilled to welcome back the incredible Luxmuralis with Lost Worlds.

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Exhibition

Schools Open Exhibition

10 Oct 2026 - 5 Dec 2026 Coming soon

We are inviting North Lincolnshire’s Infant, Primary, and Secondary schools to take part in this special exhibition at 20-21 Visual Arts Centre.

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Exhibition

Introducing 2026

26 Sep 2026 - 12 Dec 2026

Our ‘Introducing’ exhibitions are shows by locally based artists, offering the opportunity to showcase their work in a professional setting

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Kevin Hornsey

Exhibition

The Cat That Slept For A Thousand Years

23 Oct 2026 - 31 Oct 2026 Coming soon

Over half term week, a mysterious enormous snoring, purring, twitching cat has come to take a snooze in the gallery at 20-21 In an unforgettable experience for visitors. Learn the story of how the cat was discovered, and then show it some affection by giving it a stroke or a cuddle.

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Image: The Cat That Slept For A Thousand Years at Bristol Light Night by Andre Pattenden

Exhibition

20-21 Open Exhibition 2026

14 Nov 2026 - 20 Feb 2027 Coming soon

The 20-21 Open Exhibition is one of the highlights of our exhibition programme. Returning by popular demand in 2026, the exhibition showcases the very best paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs and moving-image artworks from across the region.

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Featured events

All events

Fun days, family activities and creative opportunities for all ages. There's always something for families to enjoy. Alongside hands-on events linked to our exhibitions, the centre also runs inspiring workshops for adults, welcoming everyone to explore art, craft and design in a friendly and inclusive setting.

Quiet Session - Lost Worlds by Luxmuralis

14 Oct 2026, 9:30am

Enjoy the spectacular 'Lost Worlds' in a calm and relaxed environment.

SEND Session: Luxmuralis 'Lost Worlds'

14 Oct 2026, 4:00pm

Calm, accessible SEND session with capped numbers. Explore Luxmarilis in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Luxmuralis: Lost Worlds - After hours

16 Oct 2026, 5:00pm

An immersive after-hours Luxmuralis experience with refreshments and cake provided.

20-21 Visual Arts Centre on a red cloud background

The Strangest Of Things

24 Oct 2026, 11:00am

Spooky Family Funday inspired by Stranger Things

Little Sparks - Spooky Edition

27 Oct 2026, 10:30am

Little Sparks is a fun, hands-on session aimed at under-fives, where art and science collide.

Plan your visit to 20‑21

Everything you need to know before you arrive, including opening times, access, parking and facilities.

Plan your visit