Five art exhibitions to see this summer in Devon

New opening

Velarde Gallery will open on July 21, a new space for contemporary art in Kingsbridge. Its launch show includes a solo exhibition by Italian painter Alessandro Twombly, son of celebrated 20th century abstract artist Cy Twombly, alongside A Passionate Nature, a mixed exhibition by leading and emerging British artists that includes work by Peter Randall Page, and the showstopping work Ophelia after Millais by British photographer Julia Fullerton Batten (pictured).

Art among the trees

Each year a magical garden on the edge of Dartmoor hosts a sculpture exhibition. Stone Lane Gardens near Chagford exhibits original abstract contemporary work by emerging South West artists – many previous exhibitors have gone on to international recognition. The works, which are on show until October 31, are sited in the main five-acre woodland and water garden. A tea room is open each Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Head to Honiton

The east Devon town is home to the award-winning Thelma Hulbert Gallery, a public art gallery which hosts a dynamic range of contemporary art and craft exhibitions throughout the year. In TerrOceanus photographer Corinna Wagner explores the areas between land and water. It’s on from June 17 to Aug 12. There’s also a permanent collection of work by Thelma Hulbert. The gallery is open from Wednesday to Saturday and there’s a lovely shop too.

An anniversary show

The Burton at Bideford public gallery and museum has a wide range of exhibitions all year, as well as special events and workshops. This summer, until July 4, sees an exhibition of works from the Burton’s permanent collection, as chosen by three community groups. There’s also War Horse, an exhibition to mark the 40th anniversary of the Michael Morpurgo book. The Burton has a shop and craft gallery and there’s a superb café alongside.

Ancient to modern

It’s Exeter’s award-winning museum, but RAMM is also building an excellent reputation for its contemporary art programme and commissions. This summer you can see exquisite ceramics and tilework by the Victorian designer William de Morgan. Also running is Gatekeepers to Heaven, a unique exhibition focusing on six medieval manuscripts. They originate from Exeter Cathedral and haven’t been back to the city in 400 years. The exhibitions run until September 10 and 3, respectively.