Join us at Ardleigh Studios on Saturday 7 November 2026 as artists and makers open their studio doors for a day of exhibitions, workshops, creative activities and food.
Based at The Old Maltings in Ardleigh, near Colchester, this free event offers the chance to meet artists where they work, explore studios, see works in progress and learn more about the ideas, materials and processes behind their practice.
Visitors can enjoy painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, printmaking, fashion, street art and more. The event will also feature Adrian Leroy’s new butterfly mural, hands-on creative activities for all ages, a pottery taster session, a street art workshop and a pot sale and art fair.
Artisan gourmet pizza, homemade cakes, coffee and tea will be available throughout the day.
All welcome / Free
When
Saturday 7 November 2026
12pm-4pm
Where
ACAVA Ardleigh Studios
The Old Maltings, Station Road
Ardleigh, Colchester
Essex CO7 7RT
Getting There
Train: Manningtree Station, with direct services to and from London Liverpool Street, Ipswich and Norwich.
Car: Ardleigh Studios is located approximately five miles north-east of Colchester.
What to expect
- Meet the artists in their studios
- Pot Sale and Art Fair
- Artisan gourmet pizza
- Homemade cakes, artisan coffee and teas
- Art and craft activities for all ages
- Family-friendly event
- Pottery taster sessions: make your own ceramic Christmas decoration
- Street art workshop taster, including graffiti and stencil spray painting suitable for children and adults
- Glass blowing demonstrations
- Storytelling sessions
Participating artists
Adrian Leroy
Alex Lowe
Brian Griffiths
Cal Davies
Charlie Godet Thomas
Daniella Commey
Eloise Knight
Frankie Atkinson
Imani Turner
Janice Turner
Jennifer Rowley
Jove Larenty
Justin Hopper
Kitty Reford
Luke Hickman
Madeleine Tapp
Neil Bridges
Nick Holyman
Owen Potter
Patrick Toms
Sara Wormull
