OpenSpaces 2025 has brought together artists from around the world to celebrate creativity in unexpected places. From local libraries to charity shops, nursing homes, and even radio stations, artists have been showcasing their work in venues that connect directly with communities across October, creating art experiences that as personal as they are inspiring.
Ruth Breen: Art That Connects Communities
For Ruth Breen, OpenSpaces 2025 was an opportunity to bring her art to multiple venues across her area.. Ruth shared how meaningful the experience was:
“I cannot believe how many venues have got involved. I was particularly touched by my mum’s nursing home support, which allowed my mum to see some of my paintings and two pieces of my sister’s artwork displayed together.”
With support from Jodie Hancock, Ruth displayed her work on easels in Biddulph Town Hall, which was excited to join the global art trail.
“OpenSpaces2025 is dedicated to transforming everyday spaces into platforms for contemporary art, and we were thrilled to see this vision come to life at our Homegrown and Homemade event. Local artist Ruth brought her bright, bold, and imaginative work to the Town Hall, perfectly capturing the spirit of creativity, innovation, and community engagement that defines OpenSpaces. We sincerely thank Ruth for sharing her exceptional talent with us and enriching our event.”
Jodie Hancock Events & Partnership Officer Biddulph Town Council.
Encouraged by the VAA’s support sessions, Ruth approached other venues, including Biddulph Library, her mother’s nursing home, and a community arts zone. Even BBC Stoke Radio got involved, providing an unexpected but warmly welcomed platform for her art.
Ruth’s advice to future participants is simple but powerful:
- Make the most of the VAA’s support and social media templates.
- Think creatively about how to display your work.
- Network: reach out to people who can help.
- Play to your strengths, whether that’s face-to-face communication or online.
Hear more about Ruth’s OpenSpaces Exhibition here.
International Participation: Artists from Around the World
OpenSpaces 2025 isn’t just local – it’s global. Kalib Bryan from the USA is one of the international artists participating, highlighting the trail’s far-reaching impact. His artwork is featured across two venues in PA – including the Little Angel’s Cafe and St Luke’s University Health Network.
In the UK, artists like Catriona Stamp from Lancaster have also made waves. Featured in the Lancaster Guardian, Catriona shared her studies of local birds through her OpenSpaces exhibition at Halton Mill’s Canteen, saying,
“It has been a delight to create these artworks, and I hope they bring equal pleasure to others.”
Art with a Purpose
Some artists are using OpenSpaces to make a difference in their communities. Claire Manners Wood and Aurelia Duplouich partnered with Give Your Best Shop in Islington, a charity supporting vulnerable communities. Claire’s textile sculptures, crafted from recycled and inherited fabrics, align perfectly with the shop’s mission. Both artists are keen to donate 10% of any earnings to the charity, proving that art can inspire social good.
Celebrating Community in Celbridge
Lucy Jones, a Celbridge-based artist, brought a local twist to her exhibition by incorporating lost or discarded notes into abstract paintings. Featured in the local newspaper, Lucy emphasized the community aspect of OpenSpaces:
“If I were to put on a show in a gallery, I would first have to find a gallery that thought my work was worth it. That’s really hard. This exhibition has to be for the community because essentially, it’s part of the community.”
OpenSpaces 2025: Art Without Borders
From small towns to global participation, OpenSpaces 2025 has proven that art isn’t confined to galleries. By connecting artists and communities in innovative ways, the Visual Artists Association has created a truly inclusive art trail. Whether you’re an artist looking to showcase your work or a community member seeking inspiration, OpenSpaces is a reminder that creativity thrives wherever people come together.
OpenSpaces 2025 runs from 11th October – 9th November. To view all our 2025 featured artists, head over here.