Discover creativity in our guide to Artists Open Houses 2025. Brighton and Hove is set to transform into an exciting world of art this May as the 43rd annual Artists Open Houses (AOH) festival returns. Each weekend in May brings you the chance to visit numerous artists and makers.
Spanning four weekends, including May 3 to 5, 10 to 11, 17 to 18, and 24 to 26, the festival brings art enthusiasts, Brighton residents and visitors together to explore over 180 venues across the city and its scenic surroundings, including Ditchling, Rottingdean, and Portslade.
A Celebration of Artistic Diversity
Artists Open Houses offer a unique opportunity to engage directly with artists in their creative spaces. From contemporary oil paintings to experimental installations, the festival showcases a diverse array of art forms, including ceramics, textiles, photography, and more. Visitor favourites include:
- Kate Jenkins: Renowned for her whimsical crocheted food art, Jenkins not only graces the festival brochure cover with her textile rendition of fish and chips but also opens her studio to visitors.
- Dion Salvador Lloyd: Celebrating his 25th year with Artist Open Houses, Lloyd invites guests into his Victorian home to experience his evocative oil paintings.
- Clara Wilkinson: Opening her Regency home, Wilkinson presents a new series of vibrant oil paintings, watercolours, and giclée prints, complemented by homemade cakes for visitors.
Engaging Workshops and Events
Beyond exhibitions, Artists Open House 2025 offers a wide selection of interactive experiences:
- Pom Pom Key Ring Workshop (May 17): A fun, hands-on session perfect for beginners and families to create colorful accessories.
- Drawing Attention (May 17): Led by Annelies Clarke, participants will explore ink drawing combined with watercolour techniques.
- Flower Crown Making (May 17): A creative workshop ideal for group celebrations, where attendees craft beautiful floral headpieces.
- Mosaic Making (May 25): An opportunity to delve into the ancient art of mosaics using vintage ceramics and tiles.
Artists Open Houses (AOH) was set up in 2004 by a small group of Open House artists, acting on the necessity of producing a brochure uniting all the individual trails. The initial idea was simple, but soon expanded to include a website, pr, marketing, distribution and had grown into coordinating a full-blown festival in its own right.
The clear, single brand identity for all the Open Houses has made it simpler for visitors to have a strong image of who they are and how to find Artist Open Houses venues, resulting in the festival greatly expanding over time accordingly, in both size and reputation.
Each venue is usually a home, which is opened to the public to show artwork. There are also a number of workshops and studios and a few small galleries and other art spaces that open. Some houses open one room, while others display work throughout the whole house. Many have artwork in the garden as well.
Community and Inclusivity at the Heart
Artists Open Houses prides itself on being an inclusive platform, welcoming artists from all walks of life, including recent graduates, neurodivergent artists, and those who may have faced barriers in the traditional art world. The festival creates a sense of community, encouraging visitors to not only appreciate art but also to engage with the stories and processes behind each creation.
Much of the artwork on display is for sale and is generally affordably priced. Please note that most venues cannot accept plastic, so it’s advised that you bring a cheque book or cash. Often a small deposit will secure an item if you want to collect it at the end of the festival. Many Open Houses prefer visitors to collect large purchases at the end of the festival, if possible, so as not to spoil the exhibition during the festival.
Planning Your Visit
Entry to all Open Houses is free, making art accessible to everyone. Many venues offer additional attractions such as live music, performances, and tasty refreshments, including homemade cakes and teas. Children are also welcome, making Artists Open Houses a family friendly activity to enjoy. To navigate the festival:
- Explore Trails: The festival is organised into various trails, including Fiveways, Kemptown, and Hove, each offering a unique artistic journey.
- Use the Artist Open House Brochure: Available across Brighton & Hove, the brochure provides detailed information on venues, artists, and events.
- Visit the Official Website: For the latest updates and digital resources, be sure to check out their website.
Several collective houses, where multiple artists exhibit under one roof, create a festival-within-a-festival atmosphere. These venues are full of energy, offering an exciting mix of styles and culture. Families, friends, and solo explorers can easily spend an entire afternoon wandering from one house to another, collecting postcards, prints, and sometimes even one-of-a-kind works to take home.
Converse directly with creators about their inspirations, techniques, and journeys. Artist Open Houses also gives first-time exhibitors and emerging artists a platform to share their work. If you are an artist looking for a venue to exhibit your work, upload your details to the Artist Open House website to be added to their directory. They also offer a comprehensive guide to opening an Art House during the festival.
Whether you’re an art lover or simply looking for something new to try this summer, Artists Open Houses 2025 promises a full day of creativity, community, and inspiration. Don’t miss the chance to take part in this exciting celebration of artistic expression.
Address: 168 Kings Road Arches The Lanes, West Blatchington BN1 1NB
Website: Artists Open Houses
