Artists Open Houses returns for 2025

Each weekend in May brings you the chance to visit artists and makers in over 190 venues across Brighton & Hove, out to the Downland villages of Ditchling, South Heighton and Hurstpierpoint, and along the coast from Portslade to Rottingdean and Ovingdean.  

Running Sat 3 – Mon 26 May, Artists Open Houses festival provides a unique opportunity to meet artists in their homes and studios, hear about the making of the artwork and buy hand-produced work directly from the artists and makers. Many Open Houses also offer workshops for both adults and children to get involved, learn new skills and explore their creativity.  

Highlights this year include AOH brochure cover artist, Kate Jenkins, whose extraordinary and beautiful crocheted food art has been exhibited everywhere from New York to Hong Kong. Several venues offer music, performance and screenings, alongside great sculpture and painting, exploring areas from the subconscious and the provocative, to views of the Sussex Coast and Downs. This year three venues celebrate 25 years of taking part in Artists Open Houses; Dion Salvador Lloyd on the Hove trail, and Frances Doherty and Art at 202, both in Fiveways.  

The Artists Open Houses festival encompasses artists of all ages and abilities, from those just starting out on their careers to established artists and makers; school and university students, neurodivergent artists, those with learning disabilities and mental health issues, residents of senior homes, all are welcomed and encouraged to take part.

Visiting the Artists Open Houses presents the perfect opportunity for a great day out, exploring the city and beyond, whilst meeting artists and makers offering creative inspiration alongside homemade cake and tea in artists’ homes or gardens. In addition, you can purchase some really great original art and crafts for your home, whilst celebrating and supporting your local creative community. Take a look through our brochure and plan your May weekend festival tours.  

For more details and information on every participating artist and venue, head to: www.aoh.org.uk

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