Exploring Modern Art Oxford

The gallery's premises at 30 Pembroke Street, Oxford, were designed by architect Harry Drinkwater and originally built in 1892 to serve as a square room and stores for Hanley's City Brewery.

Modern Art Oxford was established in 1965 by architect Trevor Green. Initially known as The Museum of Modern Art, Oxford, it relied on funding from the Arts Council of Great Britain to operate as a space for temporary exhibitions.

Nicholas Serota took over as director in 1973, working alongside Sandy Nairne who served as the assistant director. This marked a period of leadership transitions for the gallery.

David Elliott succeeded Nicholas Serota in 1976 and served as director until 1996, becoming the longest-serving director in the gallery's history. His programming focused on photography, graphic design, and architecture, while also introducing global contemporary artists to the gallery.

In 2002, the institution was officially renamed from The Museum of Modern Art, Oxford to Modern Art Oxford. The change marked a shift in identity for the gallery, which had operated under the former name since its founding.

Following the name change, the gallery reopened with the solo exhibition 'This Is Another Place' by Tracey Emin, held from November 2002 to January 2003. This was Emin's first British solo exhibition since 1997.