How to Tour ONCA Gallery

ONCA Gallery, located in the heart of Brighton, UK, is a dynamic, community-focused contemporary art space that champions environmental and social justice through creative expression. Unlike traditional galleries that prioritize commercial sales or institutional prestige, ONCA is a nonprofit venue dedicated to amplifying underrepresented voices, fostering dialogue around urgent global issues, and making art accessible to all. Whether you’re a local resident, a visiting art enthusiast, or someone researching sustainable cultural spaces, knowing how to tour ONCA Gallery effectively enhances your experience and deepens your connection to its mission.

Touring ONCA isn’t just about viewing artwork—it’s about engaging with a living, evolving conversation between artists, activists, and the public. A well-planned visit allows you to absorb the context behind each exhibition, understand the curatorial intent, and participate in the gallery’s broader goals of education and advocacy. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap to help you navigate ONCA Gallery with confidence, curiosity, and purpose.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research Current and Upcoming Exhibitions

Before planning your visit, begin by exploring ONCA’s official website. The gallery rotates exhibitions every 4–6 weeks, often centered on themes like climate change, biodiversity loss, food justice, migration, and decolonization. Each exhibition is accompanied by artist statements, curatorial notes, and educational materials designed to contextualize the work.

Visit the “Exhibitions” section of the website and review the current show. Note the title, featured artists, and any associated events such as artist talks, workshops, or film screenings. Pay attention to whether the exhibition requires booking in advance—some high-demand or immersive installations do. Also, check the “What’s On” calendar for any public programs scheduled during your intended visit.

Pro tip: Subscribe to ONCA’s newsletter. It delivers monthly updates on new exhibitions, volunteer opportunities, and community events, ensuring you never miss a meaningful opportunity to engage.

2. Plan Your Visit Timing

ONCA Gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday, with extended hours on weekends. Weekday afternoons (2–5 PM) are typically quieter, offering a more contemplative experience ideal for deep engagement with the artwork. Weekends attract larger crowds, especially during opening receptions or themed events, which can be energizing but may limit one-on-one interaction with staff or artists.

If you’re visiting with a group, consider scheduling your visit mid-week to avoid congestion. For solo visitors seeking solitude and reflection, early Saturday morning or late Sunday afternoon are optimal. Always verify opening hours on the website, as they may vary during holidays or special programming.

3. Prepare for Accessibility and Inclusivity

ONCA is committed to accessibility. The gallery space is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps and wide doorways. Sensory-friendly resources, including quiet hours and visual guides, are available upon request. If you or someone in your group has specific needs—such as hearing assistance, large-print materials, or sign language interpretation—contact ONCA in advance via email. They are responsive and eager to accommodate.

Additionally, ONCA offers free admission to all visitors. There is no ticketing system, which removes financial barriers and aligns with their ethos of inclusive access. Donations are welcome but never required. This openness makes ONCA an ideal destination for students, families, and individuals on limited budgets.

4. Arrive Early and Begin with the Entrance Experience

Upon arrival, take a moment to observe the gallery’s exterior and entrance area. ONCA is housed in a converted 19th-century building with a distinctive façade and a small, inviting garden. The entrance often features rotating installations or community art projects that set the tone for the exhibition inside.

Inside, the reception desk is staffed by knowledgeable volunteers or curatorial assistants. Greet them warmly—they are not just information providers but passionate advocates for the gallery’s mission. Ask if there’s a printed map or guide available for the current exhibition. Many shows include QR codes linking to audio descriptions, artist interviews, or background essays. Don’t hesitate to ask for help accessing these digital resources.

5. Follow the Curatorial Narrative

ONCA exhibitions are rarely random collections of art. Each show is curated with intention, often telling a story or building an argument around a social or ecological issue. Start your tour at the first artwork you encounter and move sequentially through the space. Read the wall labels carefully—they contain vital context, including the artist’s intent, materials used, and connections to broader movements.

Look for thematic groupings: artworks may be arranged to create contrast, dialogue, or progression. For example, one room might feature stark photographs of deforestation, followed by a textile installation made from recycled fabric, symbolizing regeneration. These transitions are deliberate. Pause at each piece. Ask yourself: What emotion does this evoke? What question does it raise?

Some exhibitions include interactive elements—touchscreens, soundscapes, or participatory installations. Engage with them fully. ONCA encourages visitor participation as a form of civic engagement. Your interaction is part of the artwork’s life cycle.

6. Utilize Digital and Printed Resources

ONCA provides complimentary printed exhibition guides that include timelines, artist bios, and thematic essays. These are often written in collaboration with academics, environmental scientists, or community organizers, adding scholarly depth to the visual experience.

For digital enhancement, scan the QR codes posted near key artworks. These may lead to:

• Video interviews with the artists
• Audio recordings of spoken word pieces
• Links to related NGOs or policy reports
• Downloadable educational packs for teachers or students

These resources transform a passive viewing experience into an active learning journey. If you’re visiting with a group, consider assigning each person a QR code to explore and then share insights afterward.

7. Engage with the Community Space

ONCA’s gallery is not confined to its main exhibition rooms. The space includes a café, a small library, and a community bulletin board. The café, called “The ONCA Kitchen,” often serves ethically sourced food and drinks and may host pop-up events like poetry readings or documentary viewings.

Visit the library corner, which contains books, zines, and journals on environmental activism, art theory, and social justice. Many titles are donated by visiting artists or partner organizations. Take a moment to browse—it’s a quiet sanctuary within the gallery.

The bulletin board displays flyers for local events: climate marches, art collectives, recycling workshops, and volunteer opportunities. This is where the gallery’s influence extends beyond its walls. Note any upcoming events that interest you—they’re often free and open to the public.

8. Reflect and Document Your Experience

Before leaving, spend five minutes in silence. Sit on one of the benches provided, or stand near a window with a view of the garden. Reflect on what moved you, what confused you, and what you want to learn more about. Journaling—even a few bullet points—helps solidify your understanding and emotional response.

If you’re comfortable, take photos (without flash) of the artworks. ONCA encourages non-commercial documentation for personal use. Avoid photographing other visitors unless you have their consent. Share your experience on social media using the gallery’s official hashtag (

ONCAgallery) to help amplify their mission.

9. Leave Feedback and Stay Connected

ONCA values visitor input. At the exit, you’ll find a feedback box or a digital tablet where you can share your thoughts. Comments help shape future exhibitions and improve visitor services. Be specific: “The audio piece on coral bleaching moved me deeply” or “I’d love to see more work by Indigenous artists from the Pacific.”

Follow ONCA on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Their feeds are rich with behind-the-scenes content, artist takeovers, and calls for submissions. Consider volunteering—ONCA relies on community members to help with installations, events, and outreach. It’s a meaningful way to deepen your involvement beyond a single visit.

Best Practices

Respect the Space and the Message

ONCA’s exhibitions often tackle difficult, emotionally charged subjects. Treat each piece with reverence. Avoid loud conversations near sensitive installations. Silence your phone. Remember that the art is not merely decorative—it’s a form of testimony, protest, or healing.

Adopt a Learning Mindset

Approach each visit as an opportunity to learn, not just to observe. Ask questions. Challenge your assumptions. If an artwork feels uncomfortable, don’t dismiss it—explore why. ONCA’s strength lies in its ability to provoke thoughtful discomfort, not to entertain.

Support the Mission Beyond the Visit

True engagement with ONCA means extending your involvement beyond the gallery walls. Consider donating to their crowdfunding campaigns, sharing their exhibitions with friends, or joining their mailing list. Even small actions—like tagging them in a social media post about climate justice—help sustain their work.

Visit During Off-Peak Hours for Deeper Engagement

While opening nights are lively, they’re not ideal for deep reflection. Choose quieter times to fully absorb the work. Staff are often more available to chat during these hours, and you’re more likely to have space to sit with the art.

Bring a Notebook or Use a Notes App

Write down phrases, questions, or images that resonate. You might return to them later when researching related topics. Many visitors find that their initial impressions evolve into long-term interests in environmental justice, art therapy, or community organizing.

Encourage Others to Visit

Share your experience with students, colleagues, or community groups. ONCA welcomes school visits and offers tailored educational programs. If you’re an educator, request their free curriculum resources. If you’re part of a book club or activist group, consider making ONCA the focus of your next meeting.

Be Mindful of Photography Etiquette

While photography is generally permitted, some installations may have restrictions due to copyright, cultural sensitivity, or artist preference. Always check signage or ask a staff member before taking photos. Never use tripods or lighting equipment without permission.

Practice Sustainable Visiting Habits

ONCA is committed to environmental responsibility. Walk, cycle, or use public transport to get there. Bring a reusable water bottle—the café offers refills. Avoid single-use plastics. Your actions mirror the values embedded in the art you’re viewing.

Tools and Resources

Official ONCA Website

The primary hub for all information: www.onca.org.uk. Here you’ll find exhibition calendars, artist profiles, educational resources, and contact details. The site is optimized for accessibility and mobile use, with clear navigation and alt-text for images.

ONCA Digital Archive

ONCA maintains an online archive of past exhibitions dating back to 2010. This is invaluable for researchers, students, or anyone interested in tracking the evolution of environmental art in the UK. Each archived show includes high-resolution images, curatorial texts, and event recordings.

Exhibition Guides and Educational Packs

Available for download on the website, these PDFs are designed for educators and self-guided learners. They include discussion questions, historical context, vocabulary lists, and cross-curricular links to science, history, and ethics. Perfect for high school or university use.

ONCA’s YouTube Channel

Hosts recorded artist talks, panel discussions, and behind-the-scenes tours. Subscribers receive notifications when new content is uploaded. These videos are subtitled and include audio descriptions for visually impaired viewers.

Local Partnerships and Community Maps

ONCA collaborates with Brighton & Hove City Council, the University of Brighton, and local environmental NGOs. Their website links to community maps that show walking routes between ONCA and other cultural sites—such as the Brighton Museum, the Lighthouse (LGBTQ+ center), and the Sea Life Centre—making it easy to plan a full-day cultural itinerary.

Mobile Apps for Art Exploration

While ONCA provides its own digital tools, third-party apps like Google Arts & Culture and Art Authority can supplement your visit. Use them to research artists featured at ONCA, explore similar exhibitions globally, or compare artistic techniques.

Local Libraries and Academic Databases

For deeper research, visit the Brighton & Hove Central Library. Their art and environmental studies collections include journals like *Third Text*, *Environmental Humanities*, and *Art Journal*. Access to JSTOR and ProQuest is free with a library card.

Volunteer and Internship Programs

ONCA offers structured volunteer roles in curation, event coordination, and digital outreach. These are open to anyone over 18, regardless of prior experience. Internships are available for university students in arts management, environmental studies, or media. Applications are accepted twice a year.

Accessibility Tools

ONCA provides free loaner headphones for audio guides, large-print exhibition guides, and tactile maps for visually impaired visitors. Request these in advance via email. They also offer British Sign Language (BSL) interpreted tours—schedule these at least one week ahead.

Real Examples

Example 1: “Waste Not” (2023)

In 2023, ONCA presented “Waste Not,” a multi-sensory exhibition exploring global plastic pollution. The centerpiece was a 12-foot sculpture made entirely of discarded fishing nets collected from the Mediterranean. Surrounding it were photographs by a local photographer who documented coastal communities in Ghana where plastic waste had contaminated water supplies.

Visitors were invited to step into a small, dimly lit room where a soundscape of ocean waves was layered with the crackling of plastic. A touchscreen allowed users to trace the journey of a single plastic bottle from production to ocean, highlighting corporate accountability.

One visitor, a university student studying marine biology, later wrote: “I came for the art. I left with a research topic. I contacted the artist, and now I’m working with a local NGO on microplastic sampling.” This is the power of ONCA: art as a catalyst for action.

Example 2: “Roots & Resistance” (2022)

This exhibition featured Indigenous artists from the Amazon, Australia, and the Arctic, whose work centered on land sovereignty and cultural preservation. One artist, from the Sámi community, created a series of wool tapestries woven with traditional patterns that encoded ancestral knowledge of seasonal migration.

Each tapestry was accompanied by a QR code linking to a Sámi language recording of the artist’s grandmother singing a lullaby. The gallery also hosted a week-long series of storytelling circles, where Sámi elders shared oral histories with visitors.

Attendance tripled during the storytelling events. Many visitors returned multiple times. “I didn’t know I needed to hear these stories,” said one attendee. “Now I understand why protecting the Arctic isn’t just about ice—it’s about people.”

Example 3: “The Quiet Rebellion” (2021)

A solo show by a young artist from Bristol, “The Quiet Rebellion” featured 47 hand-painted ceramic tiles, each depicting a different act of everyday resistance: a woman planting herbs in a concrete yard, a teenager reading a banned book, a non-binary person holding hands with their parent in public.

There was no wall text. Instead, each tile had a small, handwritten note on the back, accessible only by lifting it gently. Visitors were encouraged to do so. The notes revealed personal stories: “I planted this because my mother said flowers don’t grow here. They do.”

The exhibition became a viral sensation on social media. People began sending their own handwritten notes to ONCA, which were displayed in a growing “Wall of Quiet Rebellion” outside the gallery. This show demonstrated how minimalism and intimacy can create profound public impact.

Example 4: “Climate Grief” (2024)

ONCA’s most recent exhibition, “Climate Grief,” invited artists and community members to submit objects symbolizing loss: a child’s shoe from a flooded village, a dried flower from a vanished meadow, a letter never sent to a future generation.

The gallery created a “Grief Garden” in the courtyard, where visitors could write messages on biodegradable paper and hang them from trees. After six weeks, the messages were composted in a ceremonial event attended by local climate activists.

Teachers from Brighton schools brought students to the exhibition and later held art therapy sessions based on the experience. One 14-year-old wrote: “I thought climate change was too big to feel. Now I know I can feel it—and that’s okay.”

FAQs

Is there an admission fee to tour ONCA Gallery?

No, admission is always free. ONCA believes art should be accessible to everyone, regardless of income. Donations are welcomed but never required.

Do I need to book in advance to visit?

For general visits, no booking is needed. However, some special events—such as artist talks, workshops, or private viewings—require registration. Check the “What’s On” page on their website for details.

Can I bring children or school groups?

Yes. ONCA welcomes visitors of all ages. They offer free educational resources for teachers and can arrange guided tours for school groups. Contact them via email to schedule.

Is the gallery wheelchair accessible?

Yes. ONCA is fully wheelchair accessible, with ramps, wide doorways, and accessible restrooms. They also provide sensory-friendly visiting hours and materials for neurodiverse visitors.

Can I take photographs inside the gallery?

Photography for personal, non-commercial use is permitted in most areas, unless otherwise noted. Flash and tripods are not allowed. Always respect artist requests and signage.

How often do exhibitions change?

ONCA typically changes its main exhibition every 4 to 6 weeks. They also host smaller, rotating displays in their window gallery and community board.

Are there guided tours available?

Yes. Free guided tours are offered on select weekends, led by curators or trained volunteers. These are listed on the website. Private group tours can be arranged by request.

Can I submit my artwork to ONCA?

Yes. ONCA accepts open submissions for exhibitions twice a year. Guidelines and deadlines are posted on their website under “Call for Artists.” They prioritize work that engages with environmental or social justice themes.

What happens to the art after the exhibition ends?

Most artworks are returned to the artists. Some pieces are donated to community organizations, schools, or other galleries. ONCA does not retain or sell artwork. Their focus is on experience, not ownership.

How can I support ONCA if I can’t visit?

You can follow them on social media, share their content, donate online, or volunteer remotely. They also offer digital exhibitions and online workshops for those unable to visit in person.

Conclusion

Touring ONCA Gallery is more than a cultural outing—it is an act of civic participation. In a world where art is often commodified and detached from real-world struggles, ONCA stands as a rare, vital space where creativity meets conscience. Every brushstroke, every sound installation, every handwritten note carries the weight of urgent human and ecological stories.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you don’t just visit ONCA—you become part of its story. You engage with artists who refuse silence. You listen to communities that are too often unheard. You allow yourself to be moved, challenged, and transformed.

The true measure of a successful tour is not how many pieces you saw, but how deeply you felt, how many questions you asked, and how you carried the experience beyond the gallery doors. Whether you leave with a new perspective, a research idea, or a commitment to activism, you’ve honored ONCA’s mission.

So plan your visit. Bring curiosity. Leave with purpose. And remember: art doesn’t just reflect the world—it helps change it. ONCA Gallery is proof of that.