Barnstaple Arts Festival returns

Barnstaple Arts Festival is set to make a grand return, promising to captivate the town with a diverse showcase of artistic talent. 

North Devon Council has said that following a successful event back in 2023, the town will showcase a wide range of events for both locals and visitors to revel in.

Supported by Flourishing Barnstaple, the festival is scheduled to take place from Friday, May 24, to Sunday, May 26.

The festival will breathe life into Barnstaple, transforming it into a bustling hub of creativity throughout the weekend. 

Commencing on Friday, May 24, the Arts & Craft Fayre at the Barnstaple Pannier Market will kick off the festivities, running from 9am to 4pm alongside the general traders market.

Artists and crafters interested in securing a pitch are encouraged to contact the Pannier Market directly.

Saturday, May 25, promises a day featuring a range of exhibitions and free workshops led by artists in Green Lanes from 10am to 4pm.

The highlight of the day will be the Big Draw event at the market, where attendees can join North Devon Arts artists to contribute to the 'Carnival' theme frieze.

Continuing the artistic spectacle on Sunday, May 26, Green Lanes will host more exhibitions and workshops alongside 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. Adding a unique flair, sand artists Beach4art will create topical pieces, inviting attendees to participate.

Howard Porter, one of the festival organisers said: “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! We hope you will join us.”

Stella Levy, also an organiser for North Devon Arts & Festival, said: “There’s certainly something for everyone at this year’s Barnstaple Arts Festival over the May 24th, 25th, and 26th Bank Holiday weekend. 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 a great opportunity for those who enjoy looking at art or maybe want to buy unique art direct from the makers, but also for those who like to dabble creatively themselves.”

Cultural Producer, Lee Baxendale, said: “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 council has said that the festival aims to enrich the cultural life of Barnstaple, providing an immersive experience for attendees to engage with local artists and crafters. 

They added that the festival promises something for everyone.