Found in the oldest part of Norwich, The King of Hearts Centre for People & the Arts is a charitable Trust, intended to be a haven where the arts can be enjoyed in an unpretentious and informal atmosphere, and where a warm welcome and hospitality are offered to all.
Originally a Tudor Merchant’s house, The King of Hearts still boasts many original fixtures, including beamed ceilings, original fireplaces and an amazing mullioned window in the Tudor Hall.
The King of Hearts’ Craft Shop is a Showcase for East Anglian artists and craftspeople. All hand-produced and original, everyday objects such a bowls, mugs, vases and lamps rub shoulders with decorative pieces like stained glass hangings, porcelain mobiles and brightly coloured papier maché birds. There is also a wide selection of jewellery, created from materials ranging from silver and semi-precious stones to pebbles, glass beads and papier maché. Other finds include scarves in silk, velvet or felt, books, a large choice of prints and hand-made greeting cards.
Prices range from £1.50 to £300, so you can find a small present or a very special presentation gift.
For more visual stimulation, the adjacent Art Gallery houses a variety of contemporary paintings, textiles, photographs and objects by local and national artists, most of which can be bought.
After browsing in the Shop and Gallery, why not take the weight off and relax in the café? A wide choice of teas and coffees, plus a range of delicious home cooked food (scones, soup, paninis, jacket potatoes, salads and larger main courses for those with a big appetite!) make The King of Hearts Café an ideal venue for relaxing with a newspaper and watching the world go by.
Gallery & Shop open Mon-Sat 10am-4pm.
Café open Mon-Sat 9am-5.15pm.
Upcoming Events At The King Of Hearts.
Gallery Exhibition 5 May – 31 August 08
Exploring Textiles: A celebration of past and contemporary uses, from functional to decorative.
Parallel to the Sainsbury Centre’s Cloth and Textiles Now, the King of Hearts is exploring the same field with a slightly different emphasis, in that instead of being international, all artists are from East Anglia; also, instead of focussing only on contemporary works, this original exhibition seeks to make a bridge between past and present. A cross-over between modern and traditional uses, the Show begins with 19th century lace work on clothing and Edwardian embroidery, and concludes with adventurous contemporary installations.
Entrance to the Gallery is free. Opening hours Mon-Sat 10am-4pm. Most of the work is for sale.
