Community With Creativity Since 1993

Artwave is an inclusive un-curated festival with no jury selection and we encourage artists and makers of all ages, any discipline, and at all stages of their career, to take part. We are proud to have supported work by school and college students, marginalised artists and outreach groups, alongside established artists. Now in its 32nd year, the festival continues to go from strength to strength and in 2024 attracted an estimated 53,000+ visits.

Exhibitions held within the Lewes District are subsidised by Lewes District Council. We do also welcome exhibitors from within a 5 mile radius of the District boundaries to join the festival, however these venues are not subsidised and therefore the registration fees are higher. 

Participating in the festival is a brilliant way to meet like-minded people and the art-buying public, and to raise your profile and share your creative practice with the wider community. Thousands of people visit the area for the festival each year and thousands of creative connections are made. 

Artwave Aims To:

• Champion and promote creative talent in the Lewes District

• Provide artists and makers with a platform in the Lewes District to sell their work direct to art lovers

• Support artists with opportunities and facilitate partnerships

• Create opportunities for the public to engage with, learn from, and be inspired by the creative community of the Lewes District

• Encourage local tourism by animating the area with art

• Nurture and build pride in the community

• Provide a safe and shared space that is accessible to people from all communities