A wealth of artistic talent across the South East
South East Open Studios is one of the most established annual open artist studio events in the UK; it takes place during the month of June, showcasing creative talent, and strengthening visual arts in our corner of the South East.
Our event takes place across Kent, East Sussex and the Surrey Borders, from East Grinstead to Folkestone, Rochester to Hastings … and everywhere in between!
We produce a free ‘Guide’ and around 25,000 copies are distributed through targeted outlets across the South East – you can be sure to find it in local art shops, libraries and galleries through May and June.
It is the perfect opportunity to meet the creators behind distinctive and inspiring artworks. We have over 175 participating artists and makers practising a range of disciplines, from painting to pottery and printmaking, jewellery making and textile art, sculpture and woodwork, glass making, illustration, digital art and mixed media.
Visitors can tour and explore studio spaces from custom sheds to remote workshops, beachside galleries to beautiful purpose-built studios. Seeing the creativity artists put into their space and process can be as fascinating as the art itself, and many artists will be demonstrating. Now that the event has finished it is still possible to view all the artist pages and the digital guide.
Some areas have offered ‘Trail Maps’ during the event, which is a great way of exploring and supporting your local art community, taking you from studio to studio and area to area. It makes for a great day out in the Summer – trail maps for June 2024 event were available to download at the time.
Throughout the year we provide our artists and makers with an online platform to help establish themselves and their practice within their communities and the wider arts arena. Do take a look at our Artist Pages and follow our posts on social media.
SEOS 2025 Committee
Bill Gowans – Chair
Peter Relf – Treasurer
Mark Welland – Guide Editor
Polly Bennett – Social Media
Mark Welland – Web Editor
Hildegard Pax – ACO Officer
Sarah Bourne – Advertising/Sponsorship Officer
Position Vacant – Marketing Officer
Ingrid Solan – Data/Content Officer
Kirsten van Schreven – Social Media Officer – Back End