ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Ocean Studios opens in Plymouth's historic Royal William Yard with inaugural exhibition

institutional · 2026-04-20

Ocean Studios, a £4.2 million artist complex, has officially opened in Plymouth, located within the historic Grade-I listed Royal William Yard naval buildings by the waterfront. Co-founded by Leigh Mason and Jennifer Jayarajah, the venue features more than 30 individual studios, a communal workspace with workshops, and an exhibition area. The inaugural exhibition, titled A Taste of Things To Come, is set to launch on 4 August and will showcase works by artists including Richard Deacon, Bill Woodrow, Mary Kelly, Hew Locke, Gillian Wearing, and Grayson Perry. During the opening ceremony this week, Tate director Nicholas Serota highlighted the project as a vital advancement in the revitalization of Plymouth and the Devon region, marking a significant investment in the local arts scene.

Key facts

  • Ocean Studios cost £4.2 million
  • Located in Plymouth's Royal William Yard
  • Grade-I listed naval buildings renovated
  • Inaugurated this week
  • Cofounded by Leigh Mason and Jennifer Jayarajah
  • Includes over 30 studios and exhibition space
  • First exhibition opens 4 August
  • Features artists like Richard Deacon and Grayson Perry

Entities

Artists

  • Richard Deacon
  • Bill Woodrow
  • Mary Kelly
  • Hew Locke
  • Gillian Wearing
  • Grayson Perry
  • Leigh Mason
  • Jennifer Jayarajah
  • Nicholas Serota

Institutions

  • Tate
  • Artlyst
  • Ocean Studios

Locations

  • Plymouth
  • United Kingdom
  • Devon
  • Royal William Yard

Sources