Artists Open Houses: Yes, it’s that time of year again, the clocks have changed, the nights are drawing in and next thing we know it will be Christmas. As ever, we have Christmas all wrapped up for you with the Artists Open House Christmas 2018 Festival – 50 Open Houses featuring 500+ artists. Pruden and Smith are participating in Ditchling showing their new Christmas Jewellery Collection, from jewellery stocking fillers to jewellery that will become a family heirloom. Open every day from 10-5 up until Christmas Day.
During the festival artists are opening their doors to welcome you inside – inviting you to take a break from the High Street, and shop in warmth and comfort, with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. The Christmas Artists Open Houses create a special atmosphere, where you can chat to artists and makers in their homes and studios, whilst viewing a spectacular selection of individual, unique arts and crafts.
The festival is also a community event and includes artists with learning disabilities, artists who have experienced periods of homelessness and a group representing creative ageing activities, alongside established, professional artists and makers, as well as young and emerging artists.
There are craft-learning workshops and activities for children such as puppet shows and story telling, alongside artworks ranging from ceramics, jewellery, print-making, photography and home-wares, to handcrafted Christmas cards, wreaths, tree decorations and homemade foodie gifts.
This Christmas you can visit artists from Poland, Scandinavia, Spain and Germany to sample European artwork and delicious regional treats. The Artists Open Houses Christmas festival offers the perfect opportunity to pick up a unique and original Christmas gift for friends, family (or for yourself!) and is a great way to kick off the festive season.
Pearl stacking rings by Pruden and Smith, unusual handmade Christmas jewellery gifts