The Cornish coast is studded with fishing villages and coves that are the very definition of picturesque. Their beauty, combined with the clarity of Cornwall’s natural light, has made it a hotbed of artistic creativity over the years. Why not organize a tour of the county’s villages to see where the masters found their inspiration?

Explore the Vibrant World of Cornish Colourism
The landscape and coasts of Cornwall gave birth to an extraordinary branch of the Colourist movement in the early 20th century, as their vivid tones captured the changing seasons and dynamic colours of villages like Polperro or Mevagissey. Nowadays, the tradition is very much alive, with exponents like Falmouth’s John Dyer and Paul Westaway.

Get Back to Nature with the Naïve Movement
Cornwall has also been captured in stunning colour by painters in the Naïve movement, with their bold, simple images. Visit Penzance, the port that inspired Naïve master Alfred Wallis, or see the cool, pure works of Wallis’ friend Ben Nicholson that are displayed in St Ives.

Combine Art with Walking the Coast
To get a real feel for how Cornwall inspired its artists, you have to walk the coastal footpath. Pick any stretch, from Newquay to Polzeath or Falmouth to Lizard, pack a sketch pad, pencils and any glasses you need to capture the moment.

Finish Off With a Trip to St Ives
Round off your trip with a visit to the galleries in St Ives. At the western end of Cornwall, St Ives is a gorgeous small coastal town with an artistic heritage. See the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden, the masterpieces at the Tate, or works by talented newcomers at Porthminster, before heading home.

When you visit Cornwall, you will understand why artists moved there so often in the early 20th century, and why it still produces magnificent works of colourist or naïve art. If you take the time to breathe the sea air, you will soon feel the pure sunlight inspiring you in the same way. So book an artistic tour of Cornwall today.