Doors are being flung open to artists’ homes and a host of other venues across Lewes district for the annual creative extravaganza of Artwave which starts this weekend.
The festival, running over three weekends from September 3 to 18, will feature artwork from almost 900 creatives at 159 free exhibitions, making it the biggest ever Artwave. It is also the first time since the pandemic that people can visit artists’ private homes.
Among the highlights of Artwave, now in its 29th year, are the Seaford Trail and the Haven Trail around Newhaven and Peacehaven.
Councillor James MacCleary, Leader of Lewes District Council and Newhaven councillor, said: “We have so much local creative talent and in Newhaven alone the exhibitions encompass contemporary art, ceramics, jewellery, metal and leatherwork, abstract art, sculpture, textiles and even furniture.
“It is very welcome that many of these pieces will be shown in artists’ homes once again, which offers a great opportunity for people to speak directly with the creators in their own spaces, alongside public venues such as The Hillcrest Centre and Newhaven Museum.
"Newhaven is buzzing with energy and exciting regeneration projects are taking shape here, so I hope as many people as possible can visit the town during the festival and enjoy these wonderful exhibitions. This is the biggest ever Artwave and it may well be the best!”
Visitors can also opt to follow trails around Lewes or a route through rural district villages.
Another major attraction of Artwave is set to be Celebrate Cuckmere Haven, the largest exhibition of the festival with around 70 artists and makers showing works inspired by Cuckmere Haven and the surrounding valley.
Festival guides, including details of all the exhibitions, when they are open and the facilities on offer, are available at Lewes or Seaford Tourist Information Centres (TICs). To request a copy to be posted to you, contact either Lewes TIC on 01273 483448 or Seaford TIC on 01323 897426.
Full details are also available online at artwavefestival.org
Artwave is brought to you by Visit Lewes. Sussex Community Development Association (SCDA) is sponsor of the Haven Trail and Seaford Community Cinema is sponsor of the Seaford Trail.
