South East Open Studios (SEOS) is one of the most established annual arts events in the south east and now in its 24th year, with more than 200 artists and makers taking part, it is a fantastic opportunity to step into studios and meet artists.
SEOS is a 17-day event from June 4 to June 20 and visitors can tour and explore unusual studio spaces from custom sheds to beautiful purpose-built studios, and from remote workshops to niche galleries.
Seeing the creativity artists put into their work spaces can be as fascinating as the art itself, and throughout the event many artists will be demonstrating in their studios. It’s the perfect opportunity to meet the creators behind distinctive and inspiring artworks, including ceramics, sculpture, glasswork, painting, printmaking and textiles.
The lockdowns of the past year have also seen many artists experimenting with new creative angles and new artists emerging, having found the time to explore their creativity.
Five artists taking part in Rye and the local surrounding area have put together an art trail and welcome locals and visitors to take part. The event is completely free of charge and will take you on a fun journey meeting five very different artists amongst their eclectic handiworks in some fabulous home studio settings and charming gallery venues in Rye itself.
Rye Town Centre
Chris Daynes, Crab and Lobster Gallery, 13 West St, Rye TN31 7ES – Chris paints entirely on site all year round in all weathers, a challenging experience that encapsulates the natural atmospheric changes that occur whilst in situ. Showing a wonderful collection of expressive evocations of light and atmosphere painted in oils, direct from the landscape and our coastline.
Tina Kaul, Red Door Gallery,58 Cinque Ports St, Rye TN31 7AN – Showing a truly unique collection of extraordinary creations made from driftwood collected along the local coastline. Fascinating sculptures, rustic shelving units, candle holders and more crafted from driftwood, alongside vibrant, colourful abstract paintings and art furniture.
Rye Outskirts
Brenda Hartill, Pound House, Udimore Rd, Udimore TN31 6AY – Get lost in the intricate and mesmerising detail of Brenda’s wonderful abstract and often heavily embossed work. Collagraph, etching, painting, collage and encaustic works in the setting of her wonderful Oast House studio and gallery.
Sharon Hulf, Arnon, Sea Rd, Winchelsea Beach TN36 4LA – Inspired by the different textures found on her local seashore, Sharon crafts stunning hand made jewellery from silver, gold and silver clay, sometimes adding a piece of sea glass collected from the local beach. Visit her in her gorgeous garden studio.
Tim Riddihough, Fardhem, Chick Hill, Pett Level TN35 4EQ – Enter the fantastical and remarkable world of Tim Riddihough and meet his giant mystical creatures, curious sculptures, wood and ceramic creations, 3D collage, mixed media paintings and more.
Further information on individual opening hours and the full guide can be found at www.SEOS-art.org or you can pick up a free printed guide at various shops and locations around town, including outside Red Door Gallery.
Image Credits: Nick Forman , Heidi Foster .