Focus on Zimmer Stewart Gallery

Background

 Zimmer Stewart Gallery is a contemporary art gallery located in the picturesque town of Arundel, West Sussex, England.

Tarrant Gallery is there base for a programme of exhibitions.

John Zimmer and James Stewart in the gallery in 2011

Established in 2003 by art dealer and curator, James Stewart and John Zimmer, the gallery has become known for its commitment to showcasing innovative and thought-provoking works by both emerging and established artists.

Now based at Tarrant Gallery on Tarrant Street, Arundel, they are in the cultural heart of the town, and now continues to be a prominent destination for art enthusiasts, collectors, and the general public alike.

Mission and Vision

The gallery aims to provide a platform for artists to present their work in a dynamic and engaging environment. It focuses on contemporary art across various mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and installation.

James Stewart likes to build a strong collaborative relationship with the Artists he works with, many of whom have been exhibited for over 20 years: Including Nick Bodimeade, Matt Bodimeade, Phil Tyler, Holly Frean, Anthony Frost and Tom Hammick.

James Stewart with Anthony Frost during his Beyond Cool exhibition in August 2016

Zimmer Stewart Gallery strives to foster a deeper appreciation for contemporary art within the South East and beyond.

Exhibitions and Artists

Zimmer Stewart Gallery hosts a diverse range of exhibitions throughout the year, often featuring solo shows and group exhibitions that highlight the work of both local and international, emerging and established artists.

James Stewart with Ann Sutton, MBE at the opening of her exhibition at Zimmer Stewart in 2003

The gallery has participated in the London Original Print Fair, London Art Fair, Joze Show Battersea, Brighton Art Fair and and range of other pop-ups over the years - including an exhibition of works by Nick Bodimeade, Matt Bodimeade, Tom Farthing, Katharine le Hardy, Emma Rimer and Phil Tyler at The Hub, Farnborough Business Park. Including a selection of works by Farnborough Sixth Form Art College (with whom several of the exhibiting artists held a workshop).

James Stewart with Matt and Nick Bodimeade setting up at The Hub, Farnborough in June 2019.

Go to their Past Exhibitions page to see details of pervious exhibitions.

The gallery has developed a reputation for its carefully curated exhibitions that challenge viewers and encourage dialogue about contemporary issues through art.

This curatorial approach emphasises integrity, quality and originality, ensuring that each exhibition presents a unique perspective within the contemporary art landscape.

Community Engagement

In addition to its exhibitions, the gallery is actively involved in local arts: Most recently James Stewart helped in the organisation of the Sussex Craft Week in June 2026, and has in the past organised the Arundel Gallery Trail and been a director of Arundel Festival of the Arts. Further, James Stewart is a regular speaker at the Arts Junction Monday night events at the Victoria Institute.

James Stewart with Phil Tyler at his book signing during the 2017 Arundel Festival

His commitment to community outreach helps to demystify the art world and make it more accessible to a broader audience.

Notable Achievements

Over the years, Zimmer Stewart Gallery has garnered recognition for its commitment to promoting contemporary art and supporting artists:

John Zimmer and James Stewart at the Observer Business Awards 2009

In 2009 Zimmer Stewart Gallery won an Observer Business Award, recognising excellence in Business.

Also in 2009 James Stewart was a judge on the panel for the National Open Art Competition (Chichester) alongside Gavin Turk and Catherine Lampert (director of the Whitechapel Gallery) and in 2010 he was a judge for West Sussex Artist of the year with Gary Shipton, editor in chief of Sussex Newspapers, now High Sherriff of Sussex.

In 2018 James Stewart was a Judge for the Sunday Times Watercolour Competition.

Conclusion

Zimmer Stewart Gallery continues to be a vital part of the contemporary art scene in West Sussex, dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape through its exhibitions and community-focused initiatives.

With a commitment to artistic excellence and innovation, the gallery remains a key player in the promotion and appreciation of contemporary art.