Artists Open Houses
By Amanda 23rd Apr 2008

The annual festival of Artists Open Houses, which takes place during the May Brighton Festival, is quite simply, the biggest free arts event in Britain. The Artists Open Houses offer a fantastic opportunity for visitors to see artwork displayed in a domestic setting and to buy affordable work direct from local artists and makers. Entry is free and visitors are able to view the studios, homes and gardens of the artists of Brighton, Hove and the surrounding areas. As well as painting, printmaking and sculpture, the houses displayed a wealth of ceramics, furniture, jewellery, stained glass, furnishings and textiles. Most Open Houses belong to a Trail, in which the houses are grouped within easy walking distance of each other. A number of houses also served tea and cake.

This year's Artists Open Houses festival will cover the first four weekends of May 3rd & 4th, 10th & 11th, 17th & 18th, 24th & 25th. In 2007 around 1,000 artists exhibited work in 198 houses, divided into 14 trails, plus independent houses. For a full listing of Trails and artists visit the website.

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