You saw it here first! The world premiere of The 7: Banksy Under Siege is now on show at the National Horse Racing Museum in Newmarket.
The collection of seven life-size photos show works created by Banksy in the rubble of war-torn Ukraine. The pieces are typical of the thought-provoking nature of the clandestine artist’s subjects, such as Injured Gymnast, which shows an athlete in motion in a neck brace, symbolising the resilience of the human spirit to overcome obstacles.
A number of the originals have now been destroyed by bombing – The 7 could be the only official record of the complete collection. Their story is told in an accompanying audio narrative and there’s a chance for you to donate to the Ukrainian charity Razom, which provides aid in the conflict zone.
This extraordinary display sits alongside one of this year’s major contemporary art exhibitions in the UK, The Urban Frame: Mutiny In Colour. A celebration of street art, it features works by the stars of the modern art world, including Banksy, Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin, Blek Le Rat, the Connor Brothers and more. 
Whilst the Museum is more known for the likes of Stubbs and Munnings, this juxtapostion of the modern sitting alongside the traditional adds to the intrigue. Opening on 3rd June and running until 1st October, prices are £7 per adult and £3 for 12-18yrs with under 12s going free. Tickets can be purchased here.
And the visual inspiration doesn’t end at the museum door. Take a walk around the town centre to spot the exciting new street art that is making the place pop with colour. This complementary creative initiative, ‘Newmarket In Colour’, is the brainchild of Discover Newmarket and several local businesses, who’ve commissioned professional artists to create murals with local schoolchildren and community groups.
While you’re here…
Be sure to look around the rest of the exhibits at the National Horse Racing Museum, which include the intriguing juxtaposition of the classic equine art on show in the Packard Gallery of British Sporting Art. There are fascinating displays about the world of racing, including the chance to experience the thrill of the chase by riding a racehorse simulator. And say hello to the horses being cared for in here at the flagship home of the charity Retraining of Racehorses.
There’s plenty to do and see around the town, too. Take one of Discover Newmarket’s exclusive guided tours – you’ve a wide range to choose from – and go behind the scenes of the home of horseracing.
Meet retired champion racehorses and mares with their foals at the National Stud and top trainers’ yards. Watch bidders compete for the world’s best thouroughbreds in the magnificent ring at Tattersalls auctioneers. Find out what it takes to become a jockey at The British Racing School.
You can even go backstage at the town’s two racecourses, the Rowley Mile and July Course. In fact, time your visit for a race day and experience the thrill of the race – you might even back a winner.
And why not stay the night …
There are plenty of comfortable stopover choices to suit all tastes and budgets in Newmarket, whether you prefer a historic members club or a luxury boutique spa hotel, a welcoming B&B or a cosy self-catering apartment. Click here for accommodation ideas.
