If you need a sign that Brighton’s sliding into its sparkliest season, here it is: the Artists Open Houses festival is back for its winter run, with studios, living rooms and very chic sheds flinging open their doors across the city. Three cosy weekends, hundreds of makers, and enough mulled wine to warm even the grumpiest December soul.
Across Hove, Fiveways, Kemptown, Rottingdean and all the fun bits in between and beyond, local artists are turning their homes into mini galleries packed with ceramics, textiles, prints, jewellery and handmade gifts that actually feel thoughtful (and not last-minute-panic-buying from Mr Bezos).
The vibe? Wandering into strangers’ houses and having a mooch without it being weird. Fires on, fairy lights up, something deliciously spiced in a mug, and makers chatting away while you mentally redecorate your home with their stuff.
Some places to put on your hit list
The Garden House is back with gorgeous ceramics, paintings and jewellery – plus mulled wine and beer from a brewery actually founded in the house.
Studio Eleven continues to be the city’s creative mothership: think hand-printed clothing, leather bags, embroidered patches and Saturday morning demos if you like seeing how the magic happens.
The Portland Place home of the artists behind Kemptown’s gorgeous Twofolde studio is your spot for clean lines, muted palettes and the kind of ceramics that make guests say “oh my god, where’s that from?”.
Harriett’s Press is doing brilliant community work as always – art, warmth and even free laundry for anyone who needs it.
And there are loads more: tiny front rooms stuffed with prints, sprawling studios, and hidden gems you’ll want to gatekeep (but won’t).
You can’t really go wrong though, every house has its own little magic.
Why we love it
It’s the easiest, most wholesome winter wander going. You get a peek behind Brighton’s creative curtain, you support actual local artists, and you end up with gifts people will genuinely love. Also: mulled wine. Everywhere. Pick a neighbourhood and have a mooch. You’ll come home with rosy cheeks, new art and a sudden desire to rearrange your entire house. Weekend and gifting sorted.
Open Saturday and Sunday on 29th and 30th November; 6th and 7th December and 13th and 14th December; opening days and times vary from house to house; free
aoh.org.uk
Photo credits: Syl Ojalla
