After a successful event in 2023, Barnstaple Arts Festival returns this month poised to dazzle the town with a diverse array of artistic talent, supported by Flourishing Barnstaple. 

From Friday May 24 to Sunday May 26, the festival will transform Barnstaple into a vibrant hub of creativity, offering a rich tapestry of events for locals and visitors alike to enjoy. 

Kicking off the festivities on Friday is the Arts & Craft Fayre at the Barnstaple Pannier Market, running from 9am to 4pm alongside the general traders market. Artists and crafters interested in securing a pitch can contact the Pannier Market directly at [email protected]. 

Saturday promises a day filled with exhibitions and free workshops led by artists in Green Lanes from 10am to 4pm. 

Additionally, the market will host the Big Draw event, inviting attendees to join artists, Ruth Bateman and Sue Giblett, to make your mark on the ‘Carnival’ theme frieze - stay for 5 minutes or all day from 10am to 4pm.

Sunday continues the artistic spectacular with more exhibitions and workshops in Green Lanes and a free pop-up gallery in the Barnstaple Pannier Market, all open from 10am to 4pm. Visitors will have the opportunity to view and purchase art directly from various local artists.  

A unique element, sand artists, Beach4art, will be turning an area into a beach to create one of their topical pieces and giving attendees the chance to have a go.

Howard Porter, one of the festival organisers, says: “We are really excited to be holding this year’s festival in the refurbished Pannier Market and in Green Lanes shopping centre, giving us the opportunity to attract interest from shoppers and bank holiday weekend visitors. We have an amazing array of artistic talent here in North Devon, which deserves to be seen. There will be an opportunity to view and buy art and craft work, see demonstrations of techniques and have a go yourself!” 

Taking place each day from 10am to 4pm in the heart of town, it's accessible to all, young and old and families. It’s an opportunity for those who enjoy looking at art or maybe want to buy unique art direct from the makers, as well as those who would like to dabble creatively themselves. 

“Cultural Producer, Lee Baxendale, says: "We're delighted to bring the arts back to the heart of Barnstaple, providing a platform for local artists to shine and for the community to come together. 

“The festival aims to enrich the cultural life of Barnstaple, providing an immersive experience for attendees to engage with local artists and crafters. Whether admiring artwork, participating in workshops, or purchasing unique pieces, the festival promises something for everyone.