Attraction Guide: Kettle's Yard, Cambridge, UK

Kettle's Yard Guide

Kettle's Yard: Art, Home, and Harmony in Cambridge Guide

Step into Kettle's Yard, a truly unique and inspiring place in Cambridge. More than just a museum or gallery, it's the former home of Jim and Helen Ede, who transformed four cottages into a harmonious living space filled with art, natural objects, and a sense of tranquility. It's a place to slow down, appreciate beauty in the everyday, and experience art in an intimate and personal setting. Prepare to be charmed by the carefully curated collection and the overall atmosphere of peace and creativity. Jim Ede, a former curator at the Tate Gallery, moved to Cambridge in 1957 and opened his home to students and visitors. He believed that art should be accessible to all and that living with art could enrich one's life. He filled Kettle's Yard with works by renowned artists like Joan Miró, Barbara Hepworth, and Ben Nicholson, alongside found objects like pebbles, shells, and feathers. The arrangement of these objects, carefully considered and constantly evolving, creates a unique dialogue between art and nature. Visitors can explore the house and its collection, attend concerts and talks, and participate in workshops. The house is a living artwork in itself, and you're encouraged to wander through the rooms, taking in the light, the textures, and the carefully placed objects. Don't miss the extension gallery, which hosts temporary exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. After your visit, relax in the cafe and enjoy a light lunch or afternoon tea. While Kettle's Yard doesn't have a specific culinary tradition, the cafe offers a selection of locally sourced and seasonal food.