The Portsmouth Open Studios Event (POSE) will take place from 25-27 October and provides a unique opportunity for you to explore the creative scene within Portsmouth and the surrounding area. This year’s event will feature more than 80 artists across 34 locations, from the Historic Dockyard to the Hilsea Lines. It’s your chance to take a peek behind the scenes and learn more about some of your favourite artists and creative types.

Brought to you by City Arts Portsmouth CIC, the event celebrates both emerging and established creatives, offering an inclusive platform for artists to exhibit and sell their work. In addition to fine art, sculpture, and crafts, visitors will have the chance to experience live talks, demonstrations, music, dance performances, and hands-on workshops, including pottery throwing sessions, printmaking, jewellery making, ceramic hand-built percussion instruments and more. The wide variety of activities highlights the thriving cultural community of the city.

Alongside exhibitions and performances, POSE invites you to get involved with interactive workshops and discussions. You’ll be able to meet artists, enjoy informal conversations, and explore the creative process. The event is an accessible and welcoming platform, suitable for both seasoned art enthusiasts and those new to the creative world.

Plan Your Visit

With venues spread across Portsmouth, you can follow the red arrows and POSE posters, which will guide you to participating locations.  We also have a PDF map here for you to download. Mark out your own trail over the weekend!

If you’d prefer a hard copy, look out for the map in Southsea Lifestyle magazine or pick up the Portsmouth Open Studios Event Guide at one of the participating venues. Whether it’s enjoying a performance, learning a new skill, or discovering a new favourite artist, the event offers a wide range of experiences. Each venue’s opening times may vary, so do check the event guide for details on access, location, and schedules.

I’m a bit gutted I won’t be able to visit any because, *shameless plug alert*, I’ll have my own open studio as Trash Panda jewellery, sharing a space with the mosaic and stained glass genius that is Louise Pitt, at 38 Victoria Road. We’ll be upcycling materials into shiny new things. But here are my top picks if I were able to wander, these talented folk would be the top of my list: Alice Crowe Ceramics, Cat Askew, Fark, Mister Samo, Roo Abrook, Ian Parmiter, Midge, Jamie O’Neill, Liz Linfield, POGO and Nusye McComish.

Come and join this celebration of creativity. Whether you’re looking to support local artists, engage with the community, or simply explore Portsmouth’s rich art scene, POSE offers something for everyone. Mark your calendar and join us for a weekend of art, inspiration, and discovery.

Website: cityartsportsmouth.com/event-details/pose-with-city-arts-portsmouth
Instagram: @poseportsmouth
Map / Guide: download here

Photos thanks to P.O.S.E Portsmouth