Dorset Art Weeks 2026
23 May – 7 June 2026
Norwegian boatbuilding, Japanese folk history and ancient geology have provided inspiration and techniques for some of the artists taking part in this year’s Dorset Art Weeks.
More than 500 artists will be showing their work at almost 300 venues across the county for Dorset Art Weeks, an event which offers the opportunity to explore an extraordinary variety of art. Due to previous success, the event is now held annually, and invites the public to see art ranging from traditional to contemporary, in artists’ open studios, workshops, group shows and curated exhibitions.
Artists taking part include:
Amanda Wallwork has been working on a project inspired by the impact of geology. ‘The Colour of Time’ takes its name from the colours of rocks which represent different eras, and also from the colours used to map and catalogue rocks. She has created ‘Geospheres’ made from different rocks and representing different time periods.
During Dorset Art Weeks, Amanda’s work can be seen at Old Timberyard Studios, along with Jon Adam’s oil paintings which express his emotional interpretations of the world around him. Richard Wilson’s colourful ceramics and Kit Benwell’s sculptures using laminated wood and steam bending can be seen at this venue.
Venue 184: Old Timberyard Studios, West Bay, West Bay Road, Bridport DT64EL
Marc Yeats paints expressionist seascapes inspired by the south west coast. He experiences the atmosphere and the mood of a place he visits, and then paints from memory in his studio, using oils on canvas or on board. Marc’s paintings aim to capture the energy and vibrancy of sea, sky and cliffs. Also a composer, Marc uses the inspiration he gathers to create music.
Venue 188: Electricbackroom Studio, Unit 39, Symbondsbury Estate Business Park DT6 6EY
A number of artists will be showing their work at Sladers Yard, including:
Yo Thom combines Japanese and British pottery traditions. In parts of Japan, there used to be a tradition of giving pieces of old fabric to the family of a newborn child, so that they could use the fragments to make new clothes for the baby. Some of Yo’s vessels take inspiration from this patchwork, and from the Dorset countryside.
Yo also works with indigo, a dye which was used in the past by Japanese farmers to make their clothes more hard-wearing.
Petter Southall uses boatbuilding techniques to make furniture. He steam-bends hardwoods to create curves, and works with the natural form of the wood to make simple, elegant lines true to the original material.
Venue 183: Sladers Yard, West Bay Road, West Bay DT64EL
Director of Dorset Visual Arts Paul Newman said:
“Through Dorset Art Weeks we offer local people and visitors 16 days to explore an extraordinary variety of art, from traditional to contemporary, showcased by Dorset’s talented artists, makers, and designers. Building on our success as a biennial event, Art Weeks will now take place every year. “
“Visitors can meet artists, from emerging talent to established professionals. There is the opportunity to purchase original art and crafts, whilst celebrating and supporting the local creative community. “
Dorset Art Weeks which runs at venues across the county from Saturday 23 May to Sunday 7 June 2026.
Gillian Taylor PR 