During Brighton Fringe 2026, art events spill out of galleries and into streets, studios, and temporary spaces across the city.
Artists host open houses that feel informal and direct, letting visitors see work where it’s made and talk to the people behind it. It was always a great idea as homes become galleries. This is one of the things I value most about living in Brighton – the diverse mix of arts, in main venues but also the gaps inbetween. Brighton can be mainstream, but is also as bohemian as it ever was, even as some open houses have become a bit too retail-focused
We’ll be previewing a different range of art events during May.
The mix is broad and eclectic, often wonderfully messing with genres and disciplines: painting, print, ceramics, installations, and small experimental shows tucked into flats and shared workshops. It’s less about spectacle and more about access, with affordable pieces and a sense of local momentum that keeps the whole thing grounded and worth wandering. Evenings bring quieter crowds and longer conversations that stay with you afterwards too.
Old School Studios: New Meanwhile Arts Space Opens for Artists Open Houses
2026
This May, Old School Studios opens as part of Artists Open Houses 2026, transforming the former Brighton Waldorf school between Kemptown and Whitehawk into a meanwhile arts space.
Developed by Artcore Brighton, the project brings a substantial building back into temporary use as a working studio complex and exhibition site. At the end of the Kemptown Trail, the space will open to the public for the first time, offering access to both artists’ studios and a large group exhibition across the building.
The exhibition brings together over 50 artists working across sculpture, painting, photography, printmaking, textiles, ceramics, jewellery and moving image. Visitors can explore working studios alongside installations and artworks presented across former classrooms, shared spaces, and outdoor areas.
The project is co-founded with Mutoid Waste Company and Glastonbury Art Director Alex Wright (aka Wreckage), bringing together artist-led practice with large-scale installation and sculptural work. Featured artists include Helen Beard, Jim Naughten, Dotmasters, Carrie Reichardt, Anastasia Pollard, Jesse Leroy, Giles Walker and Joe Rush, among others, reflecting a broad cross-section of contemporary practice. Alongside the exhibition, the programme includes pop-up performances, workshops, and a bar and food from Lost Pier and La Cantina, creating a social, open environment across the weekends.
Artcore International , established in 1995, supports the production, exhibition and experience of art in its many forms. It provides affordable studio space, organises exhibitions, and runs teaching initiatives and community projects. Old School Studios is the latest opening, demonstrating how disused buildings can be temporarily reimagined for cultural use.
Opening Times:
Weekends and bank holidays throughout May 2026
(2-4, 9-10, 16-17, 23-25), 12-6pm
Location:
Old School Studios
John Howard House
Roedean Road (entrance on Whitehawk Road)
Brighton, BN2 5RA
