As the curtain closes on OpenSpaces 2025, we’re filled with gratitude and inspiration. The VAA would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to every artist who took part in this year’s trail,the first artist-led global community art event of its kind.
From 11th October to 9th November 2025, OpenSpaces transformed the way we experience art, bringing creativity out of traditional galleries and into everyday spaces. Artists across the UK, Europe, USA, Asia, and virtual platforms turned studios, shops, wellness retreats, and town halls into vibrant hubs of expression and connection.
Over 75 artists worldwide participated; some for a day, others for the full month; each contributing their unique voice and vision. The result? A global celebration of art, accessibility, and collaboration that pushed the boundaries of what an exhibition can be.
Artists’ Voices from OpenSpaces 2025
Here’s what some of our incredible participants had to say about their experiences on the trail:
Melanie Winning
“Had such a great turnout! Sold 9 pieces!”
Sue Houghton
“We had a great weekend at the inaugural Penshurst Art Fair in Kent. We had 12 artists and creators, 170 guests for the private view, and 350 visitors over the weekend.
My first time as an art event organiser – exhausting and exciting in equal measure! Follow us on Instagram @suehoughtonart and @penshurstartfair for updates on next year’s show!”
Angela Rose
“I have had such a good response of likes on Facebook and comments displaying my floral paintings at Myla Clare Boutique in Hertfordshire. The paintings look really lovely in such a prominent space – I’m so thankful to the owners and for the opportunity.”
Alison Johnston
“Thank you to everyone who visited my studio exhibition – you’re all wonderful. It meant so much to open the doors to my creative space and share the work where it was made. Seeing people connect, share stories, and take time to look was really special.
This experience reminded me how art brings people together in meaningful ways. Huge thanks to the VAA for creating opportunities that unite artists and communities.”
Susan McCall
“I held a Meet the Artist Event on 1st November – huge thanks to Mark at The Lantern Pike Inn, Little Hayfield. I also hosted a postcard memory drawing challenge with prizes and an exhibition in the Little Hayfield Telephone Box!”
Claire Manners Wood & Aurelia Neila
“We’ve just wrapped up our fabulous OpenSpaces exhibition inside the Give Your Best shop in Islington, London.
Installing within 10 days of acceptance was a whirlwind, but so worth it! Aurelia’s atmospheric paintings and my textile sculptures – made with inherited and recycled materials – found a perfect home alongside the shop’s mission to reduce clothing poverty in the UK.
We’ve learned so much from the experience and are finishing with more confidence for future exhibitions.”
Ines Santiago
“My first solo exhibition as part of OpenSpaces took place in Costa Nova, a small seaside village where I live. Over 10 days, I welcomed 150 visitors, sold my first pieces, and connected deeply with the local community.
It was empowering and eye-opening – proof that artists can create meaningful exhibitions using the resources they already have.”
Ruth Breen
“Make the most of the VAA’s support – especially the social media templates and guidance, they really help!
I was even interviewed by the BBC to talk about my art and OpenSpaces – such an incredible experience.”
Listen back:
- Lee Blakeman – 30/10/2025 – BBC Sounds (1:37–1:44)
- Stuart George – Susan Hanks sits in (30/10/2025) – BBC Sounds (53:00–1:12)
A huge thanks also to Karen Holt for sharing photos from her exhibition, including her ‘Midnight Tiger’ painting which is now in New Zealand, and the Blackfriars Bridge piece that found its new home in Derby.
A Global Movement of Creative Connection
OpenSpaces 2025 has proven that art doesn’t need white walls or formal invitations to make an impact. Whether displayed in a boutique, café, coastal studio, or virtual space – each artist brought creativity into the heart of their community, inspiring connection and conversation around the world.
To every artist, host, and visitor who helped make this vision a reality – thank you. Your passion and imagination have set the stage for even bigger, bolder collaborations to come.
Stay tuned for what’s next – OpenSpaces 2026 is already taking shape, and we can’t wait to see where the journey leads.