Banksy, Hirst, and Emin spotted at Newmarket’s Artistic Weekend.

Several artists, among them three notable figures, will take the lead in hosting the United Kingdom’s most extensive contemporary art exhibition this year, situated amidst the horse racing hub.

Venture to Newmarket, Suffolk, renowned for British horse racing, where equine marvels abound. Discover the Rowley Mile and July Course racetracks, observe horses training on the gallops, and explore their breeding at the National Stud. Art enthusiasts can indulge in the Packard Galleries of British Sporting Art, housing magnificent works by George Stubbs and Alfred Munnings, portraying scenes of hunting, hawking, shooting, and racing.

However, this summer brings a fresh art experience to town. The National Horse Racing Museum, along with two other venues in west Suffolk, unveils an expansive street art exhibition, “The Urban Frame: Mutiny in Colour.” Immerse yourself in over 300 captivating creations by renowned street and contemporary artists, including Banksy, Damien Hirst, and Tracey Emin.

The Newmarket exhibition introduces an innovative showcase titled “The 7: Banksy Under Siege,” featuring life-size replicas of “walls” initially crafted by the artist in war-torn Ukraine last November. These photographic reproductions carry significant emotional weight, given that many of the original walls have been destroyed by bombardment. Additionally, the exhibit showcases two original Banksy works: “Hula Hooping Girl,” removed from a Nottingham beauty salon’s wall, and “Love is in the Air,” an anti-war image once displayed on a Jerusalem garage wall, making its official debut here after a successful auction sale for $12.9 million last year. It’s slated to tour galleries in Amsterdam and Barcelona thereafter.

Among other striking exhibits is “Citroen Berlingo Van,” a vehicle adorned with 200 eyes by artist My Dog Sighs; works by Blek le Rat, known as the pioneer of stencil graffiti; contributions from cult contemporary artists, the Connor Brothers; and celebrated street art figures such as Pure Evil, Stik, and Kaws.

Two additional locations featuring artwork by many of the same artists are Haverhill Arts Centre and Moyse’s Hall Museum in Bury St Edmunds. Both sites are easily accessible from Newmarket, a mere half-hour drive to Haverhill and a 20-minute train ride to Bury St Edmunds. A weekend exploration of all three venues is highly recommended.

At the Haverhill venue, housed in a Victorian former town hall, talented artists lead complimentary workshops in illustration and print-making, drawing inspiration from the exhibition.

Moyse’s Hall, a historic 12th-century building on the marketplace, takes cues from My Dog Sighs’ innovative use of found materials. The exhibition’s presentation incorporates elements borrowed from various artists or crafted using crates and bricks. Instead of traditional paper labels, information is directly inscribed or painted onto walls. Moreover, other fixtures and fittings are repurposed from past exhibits, contributing to the display’s unique ambiance.

Visitors to this showcase can also marvel at Banksy’s piece titled “Sandcastle Girl,” originally painted on a wall in Lowestoft in 2021. An engaging video showcasing the artist’s work accompanies the exhibit, alongside remarkable works by prominent artists like Grayson Perry, Keith Haring, and many others.

The “Newmarket in Colour” initiative coincides with the exhibition, infusing the town with vibrant street art energy. Collaborating artists, community groups, and children have adorned various locations, such as memorial gardens and leisure centers, with stunning murals. Streets now feature overhead art installations of butterflies, while shop windows are adorned to enhance the artistic ambiance. Bars and restaurants also join the creative spirit by offering colorful dishes and cocktails.

For those keen on exploring Newmarket’s main attractions, Discover Newmarket provides guided tours that include visits to the gallops, a racing yard, and the National Stud, where visitors can interact with mares, foals, and stallions, including the renowned former champion, Stradivarius.

Moyse’s Hall boasts the most extensive collection of postcards, posters, and limited-edition prints from the exhibition in its gift shop. Meanwhile, antique enthusiasts can explore Treasures in Newmarket, offering a selection of antique furniture and vintage items. Additionally, the Riverwalk Commons hosts a weekly farmers’ market on Saturdays from May to October, providing local products and fresh produce. Moreover, a monthly makers’ market takes place in the Market Square car park, showcasing unique creations by talented artisans.