The Artists Open Houses festival: All you need to know

From Hove and Rottingdean to Fiveways, Seven Dials and Kemp Town, artists and makers will open their doors to welcome visitors inside for a vast range of arts and crafts.

The festival takes place across three weekends leading up to Christmas: November 29 and 30, December 6 and 7 and 13 and 14.

A range of work will be on offer to buy, including ceramics, textiles, paintings, jewellery, original prints and many other artworks by both emerging and established artists. All money spent goes straight to the maker.

The Garden House (Image: Syl Ojalla)

Many houses will also offer a glass of something mulled, festive decorations and a chance to meet the makers.

Judy Stevens, AOH director, said: “We are thrilled to return after the biggest Artists Open Houses Festival to date in spring with a winter festival that will see houses across the city opening their doors in the festive spirit.

“Join us by visiting houses in your neighbourhood and beyond, where you can meet members of the local creative community and discover a world of high-quality artistry and craftsmanship here in Brighton and Hove.

“It’s the perfect way to get ready for the festive season, and to see some wonderful works, enjoy a cosy afternoon in our beautiful city and meet with friends to get in the festive mood. You can also support local artists and makers as you do your Christmas shopping.”

Ink Oil and Mud (Image: Syl Ojalla)

Events to look out for:

• Artists Rosie and James will welcome visitors back to The Garden House, where you can explore elegant, practical pottery by Rose Emma Ceramics, painting by Victoria Homewood and Phillipa McDonnell and delicate jewellery by Louisa Ineson.  Plus, warm yourself in front of the fire with mulled wine or a locally made independent beer from North Garden Brewery, a brewery founded in this house
• David Streeter and friends will be providing warming noggin and festive treats as you browse two floors of original art, ceramics, fashion, jewellery, gifts and more – featuring 15 local artists and makers with an eco-friendly vibe
• Studio Eleven is a vibrant, working studio made up of an inspirational group of artists, textile and fashion designers, embroiderers and leatherworkers. Join on Saturday mornings for live demonstrations (except Sat 6). For 22 years, Studio Eleven has thrived as one of Brighton’s leading creative hubs with its own screen-printing studio and shared spaces. Explore Sophie Darling’s hand-printed clothing, Holly M Atelier’s leather bags, Ellie Mac’s joyful embroidered patches, and Mibo’s playful paper projects.
• Two Persimmons fuses the Japanese and British craft scene, bringing curated gifts that you will not find anywhere else.
• The Infinite House reveals u-sized paintings that literally whisper. Huge canvasses expressing mystical connection, others showing conflict and disorder.
• At Harriett’s Press, service users of this charity can put on a free load of laundry and take part in a hands-on creative activity while they wait. Open since 2021, Harriett’s Press offers creative development opportunities outside of traditional structures, while tackling poverty and isolation through artistic engagement.
• A warm welcome awaits at Faye Bridgwater’s popular open house, where you can explore bold florals and landscapes across the artist’s home and garden studio. 
• After a successful first opening in May, Emma Harris and Friends returns for the winter festival with a selection of curated artworks, jewellery, ceramics, candles and home fragrances 
• Discover contemporary ceramics, textiles, jewellery and painting at the home of Twofolde artists Andy and Ben in their stunning home on Portland Place. Expect muted colour palettes, striking minimal design and warming scents.