Why not open our art studios to the neighbourhood?
In 2015, a group of Ealing artists had an idea: why not open their studios to the neighbourhood?What began as a modest local experiment has grown, quietly and steadily, into one of West London’s most anticipated cultural events.
This September the Borough of Ealing Art Trail (BEAT) marks its 10th anniversary. The numbers tell their own story: Over 200 artists, 68 venues, five days of art spread across a borough – a unique opportunity to meet the artists and experience the creativity in your community.
The trail runs over two weekends, 5–6 and 12–13 September, with a new addition this year: a midweek evening opening on Wednesday 9 September, bringing BEAT to visitors who can’t make the weekends.
Every event is free and open to all, no barrier between the art lover and the art.
Looking for new art for your home or workplace?
BEAT’s venues range from private homes, where a painter might greet you at the front door and show you their studio space, to community centres, churches and public spaces. The art includes painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, textile, photography, jewellery and more. Most of it is available to buy – and buying directly from the artist is part of the experience.
This year’s programme also includes a special exhibition in aid of Ealing Foodbank — a reminder that BEAT is as much a community event as a cultural one. The not-for-profit trail is organised by a volunteer committee of local artists, all of whom also exhibit.
A stand-out year for local creativity
For 10 years, BEAT has offered something that bigger art events rarely do: an invitation into the ordinary streets of a neighbourhood, and the chance to discover the extraordinary creativity happening all around you. All events are free with no booking required.
With over 230 artists taking part across 68 venues, right across the Borough of Ealing, there’s so much creativity to explore and enjoy. The trail will be running over two weekends – 5/6 and 12/13 September – plus there’s an extra Wednesday evening opening for many venues on the 9th September. With so much art on show it’s going to be a standout year for the trail and for creativity in Ealing.