Art in the Aisles is set to return tomorrow featuring a new space for emerging artists to showcase their work, marking the first weekend of Open Up Sheffield 2025.
The two day event will take place this weekend, and will exhibit established artists’ work while opening up a space for small, local artists to display and sell their creations.
Art in the Aisles, a new addition to Open Up Sheffield introduced last year by artists Ann and Kerry, was formed to offer local creatives without studio space an opportunity to showcase their work.
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Kerry Dickinson, Co-Director of Walkley Events Collective, said: “I know how hard it is to put yourself out there, it’s a personal thing to sell yourself and it’s really difficult to take that first step, that’s why we want to support new artists this year.”
The event is returning this year after its success in 2024.
Ann Lynch, Co-Director of Walkley Events collective, said: “We didn’t know what to expect last year as it was the pilot, but we were just blown away with the response. It was such a successful event.”
This weekend, the event returns to St Mary’s Church in Walkley, and expands to the upstairs area after being oversubscribed last year. This space is being used to showcase the emerging artists.
Bea Fox, a listed emerging artist said: “I think the emerging artist area is a wonderful initiative and I am so pleased to be amongst them.
“It seems to be hard to get yourself out there and feel seen when others are clocking in millions of views on Instagram. Having the chance to be seen locally and re-conceptualise ourselves as real local artists is powerful.”
Open Up Sheffield is taking place over the first two weekends in May and supports artists and makers by opening their studios and workshops, giving residents a chance to connect with local creatives.
There are over 100 studios participating this year, making Open Up Sheffield one of the largest open studio events outside of London to showcase some of the city’s creative talents.
Olga Smirnova, OlgaInABeret, is an emerging artist showing her work at the weekend, said: “The emerging artists area makes it feel more possible to break out into the art world and feel more seen.
“I would definitely say we should have more opportunities [for local artists], events like this are really important.”