Rye – August – What’s On?
As summer starts to wind down, and the whisper of Autumn rustling through the trees, this is one of my favourite times of year in Rye. The cobbled stone streets, cosy cafes, and creativity running through the veins of this beautiful town, there’s nowhere I’d rather spend my time, and I count myself so lucky that my studio is nestled in this beautiful place.
If you're looking to immerse yourself in art of all forms, you’re in the right place.
Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival
Image courtesy of www.ryejazz.com
A highlight in the Rye calendar, the town comes alive with the soulful sounds of the Rye International Jazz & Blues Festival. Held over the August Bank Holiday weekend, this festival has become a cornerstone of Rye's cultural calendar.
This year’s lineup looks amazing, and there’s truly something for everyone! Whether you're a jazz aficionado or you just have an appreciation for the genre, the festival offers music from the soulful rhythms of blues to the toe-tapping beats of swing. And it's not just the music, there’s also an array of pop-up food stalls, artisan markets, and impromptu performances throughout the town. If you haven’t been, I highly recommend a visit.
For more information, visit the Rye Jazz Festival website.
The Rye Society of Artists Annual Exhibition
Running concurrently with the jazz festival is the Rye Society of Artists Annual Exhibition. It’s held at the Dance Hall in Rye, and it’s such a gorgeous collection showcasing the town’s thriving artistic community. From contemporary pieces to classic works, the exhibition features a wide range of styles and mediums, reflecting the diversity of Rye’s artistic scene.
What’s particularly special about this exhibition is its connection to the local community. Many of the artists featured are Rye residents or have close ties to the town, and the works on display often draw inspiration from the stunning landscapes and rich history of the area.
As someone with a deep appreciation for this corner of the world, it’s such a treat to see so many interpretations of this magical place, and what it means to so many. It’s a real source of creative inspiration to see how different minds can pay homage to the same place in such different ways.
The Rye Arts Festival
The Rye Arts Festival in September is something I look forward to every year. It's been running for 53 years this year, and it brings together art in all forms. From wildlife walks, to theatre productions, to seafood and wine events.
The beauty of the Rye Arts Festival lies in its variety, and I truly believe it’s the perfect way to experience the very best of what this unique town has to offer.
The Autumn Show at the Rye Creative Centre
As we transition into October, the Rye Community Centre (RCC) hosts its much-loved Autumn Show, one I’m personally exhibiting at as a studio-holder at the RCC. I’ve been working away at the studio to finish my next collection, which I’m so excited to share with you.
This exhibition, running from Friday, 6 September to Saturday 21st September, 10am-4pm, is an opportunity to explore the works of the resident artists at Rye Creative Centre.
My studio neighbours and friends are known for their diverse range of practices, including painting, sculpture, textiles, and mixed media, all of which will be on display. The exhibition not only showcases the artists' latest creations but also offers visitors a chance to engage with the creative processes that make the Rye Creative Centre such a hub of immense creativity. Not only that, but it’s also a chance to purchase directly from the artists, which is often a rare opportunity.
To find out more, visit the Rye Creative Centre website.
New Road Artists Open Studios
On the 20th and 21st September, we also have our Open Studios event at the RCC. It’s a wonderful opportunity for my studio neighbours and I to open our doors and give you an insight into the space where we pour our hearts and souls into our art. I absolutely loved welcoming so many of you to the studio last year, and I can’t wait to meet more of you again this time round.
Also, on Saturday 21st September, there will be a pop-up cafe in the Art Room, hosted by our neighbour Esther from GroundUp Coffeeshop. She’ll be serving up her fabulous coffee and delicious snacks. The perfect treat!