Portslade will host a weekend celebration of local creativity on 28 and 29 March, as Meet the Makers brings together artists, craftspeople and the public for two days of original art, hands-on workshops and live demonstrations — all completely free of charge.
Held at South Portslade Community Centre (SPCC), the event gives visitors the chance to meet local artists selling their work, take part in creative workshops, watch live demonstrations and connect directly with the maker community in and around Portslade.
The participating artists and makers were selected through an Open Call earlier this year, with each submitting their work alongside proposals for workshops or demonstrations. The result is a curated weekend that covers an impressive range of creative disciplines — from paintings, photography and paper cutting to pottery, jewellery, textiles and unique handmade gifts.
Among the confirmed participants are woodwork maker Mark Cass, whose Neon Saw workshop in Hove has been running sold-out carpentry courses for over a decade; ceramist Sophia Passmore; watercolour artist John Haywood; and tapestry weaver Sarah McLean, along with many more artists working across a variety of mediums.
The emphasis on workshops and live demonstrations sets Meet the Makers apart from a conventional craft fair. Rather than simply browsing and buying, visitors can watch a potter shape clay on a wheel, see a weaver build a pattern thread by thread, or try a new creative technique for themselves. Sessions are designed to be accessible to all ages and experience levels — no prior skills or materials are needed.
The event is the work of the Portslade Artists and Makers Network, a collective of local creatives who saw an opportunity to give Portslade its own dedicated arts platform. While Brighton and Hove is widely recognised as one of the most creative cities in the United Kingdom, much of that visibility is concentrated in the city centre. Meet the Makers brings the spotlight to Portslade, celebrating the talent that has been quietly flourishing on the western edge of the city.
South Portslade Community Centre, which has served as a hub for local life since 2005, provides an ideal setting. The venue is accessible by public transport via the number 1 and 1A bus routes, with the stop directly outside. The centre is wheelchair accessible. Limited street parking is available nearby.
Whether you are an art collector, a curious beginner or simply looking for a distinctive handmade gift, Meet the Makers offers a rare opportunity to engage with working artists, support local creative businesses and discover the depth of talent on your doorstep — all without spending a penny on entry.
Date: Saturday 28 – Sunday 29 March 2026
Time: 10am – 5pm (both days)
Venue: South Portslade Community Centre, Church Road, Portslade BN41 1LB
Admission: Free
