Sussex has a vibrant art scene from contemporary galleries, to local artists and artisans. As a result, each summer, there are a number of Sussex art trails which allow you to visit the artists and view their work in their studios. These trails include a range of creative disciplines from art and sculpture to metalwork, printmaking, textiles and jewellery making. And here is our round-up of the main Sussex art trails for 2025.
Chichester Open Studios Art Trail
17 – 8 May, 25 – 26 May
An opportunity to meet local artists in person in their own creative worlds. This trail is a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents and engage with a wider audience. A total of 147 artists in the Chichester area will be opening their studios, workspaces, workshops and garden sheds to visitors. The event is run by volunteers and is a not for profit organisation.
Steyning Art Trail
23, 24, 26, 31 May, 1 June
Unique venues displaying a wide range of artistic disciplines. You can discover everything from metal forging to fine jewellery, ceramic studios, wood turners, painters, printmakers and textile artists. Two special additions to this year’s trail will be the work of Steyning Grammar School Students, on display at the school, and the Artists from Making It Out, showing in the ancient barn they have carefully restored.
Artists Open Houses
Every weekend in May and Bank Holidays
Over 180 venues taking part across the city of Brighton and Hove area including Seven Dials, Ditchling, Hurstpierpoint, Ovingdean and along the coast from Newhaven to Portslade. The month of May brings you the opportunity to meet artists and makers in their homes and studios, discuss their work, how it is made, as well as learn more about the artists’ motivating ideas and inspiration. Many venues offer workshops to learn new skills and explore your creativity in myriad new ways.
Adur Art Collective
7 – 8, 14-15, and 21 – 22 June
This trail is based around the Shoreham and Southwick area and with venues from artists houses and studios, churches, houseboats, galleries and even a 1930s airport this art trail is a unique mix.
Horsham Art Trail
7-8 and 14-15 June
With 45 artists and makers in 13 different locations, ranging from artists’ homes and spaces in Horsham, to venues in Mannings Heath, Henfield, Coolham and Storrington. Find something unique and distinctive in every venue, from original artwork and textiles to jewellery, sculpture, upcycled crafts and more.
Petworth Art & Antiques Trail
19-21 June
The Petworth Collective Arts & Antiques Trail is new and celebrates the towns artistic heritage. The trail takes you via the town’s galleries and antique shops with a specially designed map to uncover exhibition highlights, expert insights, and fun antique-themed quizzes along the way.
Bognor Coastal Art Trail
Last two weekends in July
The Bognor Coastal Art Trail is a seven mile strip that stretches from Pagham to Elmer. The work exhibited is varied. There could be demonstrations, a chance to have a go, materials, tools and equipment on display. It is a chance to see all kinds of art, in the making, speak to the creatives and purchase unique works of art.
ArtWave
6 – 21 September
Artwave is the annual festival of artists and makers from Lewes, Seaford, Newhaven and the surrounding villages. The event gives art lovers the chance to discover new work, meet artists and makers, and buy directly from them. Follow the trails and enjoy the diverse range of work on show including jewellery, painting, sculpture, printmaking, textiles, ceramics, metalwork and photography.
Coastal Currents Arts Festival
30 August to 30 September.
Coastal Currents Arts Festival is an annual celebration of arts and culture across the 1066 region and also including Eastbourne. Featuring Open Studios throughout the region and a host of events, exhibitions and performances.
Nearly, if not all, of the above Sussex art trails produce a map with details of who and what to find. If you’ve enjoyed this post about Sussex art trails you may also like:
