The Pier Arts Centre

The Pier Arts Centre, an Art Gallery and Museum in Stromness, Orkney, was established in 1979 to house a collection of British fine art donated by the author, peace activist and philanthropist Margaret Gardiner (1904–2005). The Collection includes works by major 20th Century artists Barbara Hepworth and Ben Nicholson, as well as contemporary artists Sean Scully and Eva Rothschild and local artists including Sylvia Wishart and Stanley Cursiter. The Centre curates a programme of changing exhibitions and events for the enjoyment of the general public. Housed in a complex of buildings with a rich history, it re-opened in July 2007 following a major redevelopment. This included creating a new building on one of the piers which characterise the historic town of Stromness. The Centre acts as a focal point for the local artistic community, has a library and archive which is accessible to the public and runs education and outreach activities for groups of all ages. Admission is free