The Lakeside Centre’s Annual Open Studios – This September!

The Lakeside Centre’s annual Open Studios is coming up this September! Come and meet the artists working in the studios and step inside their creative practices – from painting and costuming to analogue photography and much more.

We’re delighted to share that Lakeside Darkroom will also be taking part, opening our doors throughout the day. Visitors will be able to see the darkroom itself, learn how it works, and discover how it supports artists in producing their own photographic artworks. Alongside this, we’ll be showcasing a selection of work created by our members, offering a glimpse into the possibilities analogue photography brings to artistic practice.

Alongside the Open Studios, there will be a host of activities and entertainments on the day. Get creative with one of our workshops run by professional artists, learn to play chess, or enjoy live music from our friends at RCRDSHOP in the courtyard. The Lakeside Art Shop will also be setting up, with playful and unique creations from independent artists available to buy or order.

Inside the building, upstairs, you’ll find a quiet space with art activities for young people and a place to unwind, as well as exhibitions and installations on display. Don’t miss the chance to look out across Southmere Lake from the roof, or to make new memories with friends and loved ones inside.

For the third year running, the Open Studios is part of Open City’s Open House Festival, celebrating our curiosity for what happens inside the buildings we pass every day. This iconic 1960s brutalist building was nominated for a Pineapple Award for its sustainable creative retrofit, and has featured in films such as Beautiful Thing and the TV series Misfits.

Please note: photography will be taking place on the day of the event. If you would prefer not to appear in images used for future communications, kindly let our photographer know on the day.