Rye Creative Centre

Rye Creative Centre Rye Creative Centre offers a dynamic programme of events, workshops and exhibitions throughout the year in the beautifully renovated Freda Gardham school.
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The Rye Creative Centre was launched as a centre of creative excellence in 2009 in the decommissioned Freda Gardham School. It provides a unique resource both for the people of Rye and beyond. A beautiful space to hire for any event. We specialise in 'The Arts' and event management with our outdoor cafe onsite, in house catering and stunning views of Ryes countryside. We house the private studios

of over 30 visiting and resident artists, who offer a range of workshops, master-classes, talks, demonstrations and exhibitions throughout the year. Our next public exhibition 'Variations' is a collection of the studio holders works and opens on the 26th of August. For more information please visit our website www.ryecreativecentre.co.uk

There are just three places left on this amazing life drawing workshop, tutored by award-winning artist, Nick Archer.The...
05/07/2024

There are just three places left on this amazing life drawing workshop, tutored by award-winning artist, Nick Archer.

The course has three weekly sessions remaining, Wednesday 10th July to Wednesday 24th July, starting at 7PM.

Click the link for more information and booking enquiries:

Rye Creative Centre's resident award-winning artist, Nick Archer, will be conducting both tutored and untutored life drawing classes at the centre every Wednesday.

Rye Creative Centre's resident, award-winning artist, Paula MacArthur, is leading photopolymer etching workshops once a ...
05/07/2024

Rye Creative Centre's resident, award-winning artist, Paula MacArthur, is leading photopolymer etching workshops once a month in our print room.

These friendly one-day workshops are suitable for absolute beginners through to experienced printmakers who’d like to learn a new technique.

For more information and booking enquiries, please see:

Rye Creative Centre's resident artist, Paula MacArthur, is leading photopolymer etching workshops once a month in our print room.

Rye Creative Centre's resident artist and tutor, Stephanie Rubin, announces a brand new clay workshop for July 23rd in o...
01/07/2024

Rye Creative Centre's resident artist and tutor, Stephanie Rubin, announces a brand new clay workshop for July 23rd in our Art Room. For more information and booking information, please click the link below.

An energetic workshop that combines both drawing and sculpting from life.

🎄✨ Calling all stall holders! ✨🎄Rye Creative Centre is thrilled to announce our upcoming Christmas Market on 23rd and 24...
22/06/2024

🎄✨ Calling all stall holders! ✨🎄

Rye Creative Centre is thrilled to announce our upcoming Christmas Market on 23rd and 24th November, and we’re on the lookout for talented stall holders to join us!

Do you have a knack for creating unique arts, crafts, or delicious edibles? This is your chance to showcase your work to a festive crowd and make this holiday season extra special!

Send us a message or email us at [email protected] to secure your spot. Let’s make this Christmas Market the best one yet!



https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/

21/06/2024

Nick Archer, Richard Elliot and Melanie Comber on Varnishing Day News Milestone for Rye Creative Centre By Kt Bruce - June 20, 2024 0 376 Three artists from Rye Creative Centre have had their work selected for one of the world’s most prestigious art shows. Melanie Comber, Richard Elliott and Nick ...

There are just two places remaining on this amazing Painting Seascapes in Oil workshop with Georgie Watson hosted at Rye...
21/06/2024

There are just two places remaining on this amazing Painting Seascapes in Oil workshop with Georgie Watson hosted at Rye Creative Centre.

In this workshop, you will explore every aspect of the sea, from the play of light and shadows on the water's surface to the breaking waves and the reflections on the sand at the water's edge. The sessions will emphasise colour mixing and brushwork techniques.

Don't miss out on this great workshop by a great artist and tutor by booking your place today: https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes/painting-seascapes-in-oils-with-georgie-watson

In this workshop we will be studying all aspects of the sea from the light and shadows cast on the water from above to the breaking waves and reflections cast on the sand at the waters edge. There will be a focus on colour mixing and brushwork techniques.

Read about Barefoot Opera's returns to Rye Creative Centre for the second year, this time with La Traviata, bringing a f...
16/06/2024

Read about Barefoot Opera's returns to Rye Creative Centre for the second year, this time with La Traviata, bringing a fresh, youthful take to Verdi’s classic tale, with physical theatre, movement and stripped-back staging.

Barefoot Opera's return to Rye Creative Centre for the second year, this time with their production of La Traviata , is a remarkable event that enriches the local cultural landscape.

Read our latest blog celebrating three talented artists from Rye Creative Centre whose works have been selected for this...
14/06/2024

Read our latest blog celebrating three talented artists from Rye Creative Centre whose works have been selected for this year's prestigious Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition.




Rye Creative Centre is buzzing with excitement as three talented artists from Rye Creative Centre — Melanie Comber, Richard Elliott, and Paula MacArthur — are set to exhibit their works at the prestigious Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition in London.

14/06/2024
Here are four exciting and creative art workshops taking place in June 2024 at Rye Creative Centre, providing both begin...
10/06/2024

Here are four exciting and creative art workshops taking place in June 2024 at Rye Creative Centre, providing both beginner and advanced artists with opportunities to hone their craft in a supportive and inspiring environment:

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1. Portrait Painting Classes with Nick Archer
Every Wednesday
https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes/portrait-painting-classes-with-nick-archer

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2. Clay Portrait & Figure Modelling Workshop with Stephanie Rubin
Every Thursday June 13 - July 18
https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes/clay-portrait-figure-modelling-workshop-with-stephanie-rubin

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3. Painting Skies and Clouds in Oils with Georgie Watson
Friday June 14
https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes/painting-skies-and-clouds-in-oils-with-georgie-watson

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4. Life Drawing Classes with Nick Archer
Every Wednesday June 19 - July 24
https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes/life-drawing-classes-with-nick-archer-xwn23-a7fae-yxh9b

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'La Traviata'Showing at Rye Creative Centre on 29 June 2024 - a dynamic, contemporary take on Verdi’s classic tale of lo...
10/06/2024

'La Traviata'

Showing at Rye Creative Centre on 29 June 2024 - a dynamic, contemporary take on Verdi’s classic tale of love and loss featuring one of the most iconic scores of all time.

Living life on her own terms, glamorous Violetta falls in love with young poet Alfredo. But their intoxicating romance takes a devastating turn when Violetta becomes the target of society’s double standards. Faced with an impossible choice, she sacrifices what may be her only chance of real love. When all is revealed, will it be too late?

Barefoot Opera brings a fresh, youthful take to Verdi’s classic tale, with physical theatre, movement and stripped-back staging, whilst the performers are accompanied by a small group of musicians on piano, clarinet, double bass and accordion, collectively known as the Barefoot Band.

A production for newcomers to opera as much as opera lovers, the outstanding international cast, including rising star Turkish soprano Beren Kader Fidan as Violetta, and South African-born tenor Tylor Lamani as Alfredo, will perform alongside singers from community choirs, schools and colleges from across Kent, Sussex and London.

Verdi’s opera pulls at the heart strings with its extraordinary music, and, touching on themes of envy, hypocrisy and toxic masculinity, is as relevant today as it ever was. Contrasting party scenes with tender intimate moments, this is a must-see opera event!

For more information and tickets, please see https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/exhibitionsandevents/la-traviata

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This week’s Friday Feature artist is Paula MacArthur who’s worked in studio 201 since 2012Since 2010 her work has focuss...
31/05/2024

This week’s Friday Feature artist is Paula MacArthur who’s worked in studio 201 since 2012

Since 2010 her work has focussed on precious stones, she says, “For me, crystals encapsulate love, life, the universe and perhaps even everything. My paintings are explorations of colour and light. They are a contemporary response to Dutch 17th ostentatious still lifes which invite us to consider the transience of life, the emptiness of wealth and the certainty of death. The otherworldliness of these glassy, geometric forms sparks infinite imaginings; in oil paint, I find an equivalent magic and I use luminous colour to create intricate landscapes and new, unreachable worlds. These are metaphors for the fragility of the planet we inhabit, the human condition, but also a recognition of the potential joy in the here and now.”

Paula regularly exhibits internationally and recent exhibitions include ‘At Cross Purposes’ touring Wales and to Northern Ireland, ‘Arcadia for all? Rethinking Landscape Painting Now’, at Attenborough Arts Centre, Leicester, ‘Paint Fiction’ International Gallery of Contemporary Art, Anchorage, USA and ‘Of Lightness’ at Blyth Gallery, Imperial College, London.

She was a prizewinner at John Moores Painting Prize in 1993 and other career highlights include ‘In the Future’ curated by Rosalind Davis at Collyer Bristow Gallery, ‘Made in Britain’ at the National Gallery in Gdańsk, Poland, ‘Contemporary Masters from Britain’ which toured four museums in China and ‘Slippery & Amorphous’ which toured to London & Brooklyn. Her work is held in private and public collections around the world.

Alongside her painting practice, Paula is a Programme Tutor on the BA Painting course and is a mentor for the Turps Hastings Offsite Programme . She has been a member of the artist-led group Contemporary British Painting since 2016, holding the post of Chair from 2019-2023 and since 2019 has coordinated the Contemporary British Painting Prize which is currently open for entries. Paula recently curated the Assembly exhibition at Rye Creative Centre.

You can follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/paulamacarthur_?igsh=ZTQ0bmFxeTA1ajM5

Paula MacArthur

🌟Two very exciting new workshops have just been announced by Rye Creative Centre studio holder, Georgie Watson 🌟--------...
31/05/2024

🌟Two very exciting new workshops have just been announced by Rye Creative Centre studio holder, Georgie Watson 🌟

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☁️ JUNE 14: PAINTING SKIES & CLOUDS IN OIL

In this workshop we’ll be focusing on how to develop your skyscapes looking at the surprising range of colours in the sky and the clouds beyond blues greys and whites. We will also establish how to create energy and movement with your brushwork.

https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes/painting-skies-and-clouds-in-oils-with-georgie-watson

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🌊 JULY 06: PAINTING SESCAPES IN OIL

In this workshop we will be studying all aspects of the sea from the light and shadows cast on the water from above to the breaking waves and reflections cast on the sand at the waters edge. There will be a focus on colour mixing and brushwork techniques.

https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes/painting-seascapes-in-oils-with-georgie-watson

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To find out more about these art workshops and other workshops on offer, please see: https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes.

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Interested in learning more about clay modelling? Look no further than these two amazing clay modelling workshops at Rye...
27/05/2024

Interested in learning more about clay modelling? Look no further than these two amazing clay modelling workshops at Rye Creative Centre by studio holder, Stephanie Rubin:

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⭐️ 3-Day Clay Portrait Workshop

June 07 to June 09

https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes/clay-portrait-modelling-workshop

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⭐️ 5-Week Clay Portrait & Figure Modelling Workshop

June 13 to July 18 - Thursday mornings

https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes/clay-portrait-figure-modelling-workshop-with-stephanie-rubin

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To learn about other art workshops at Rye Creative Centre, please see: https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/classes.

This 3 day workshop is a perfect introduction to sculpting in clay. You will produce a life size bust from life.Over the...
20/05/2024

This 3 day workshop is a perfect introduction to sculpting in clay. You will produce a life size bust from life.

Over the weekend you will learn everything you need to know to create a sculpture; armature construction, clay modelling, anatomy, measuring & how to prepare for firing.

Stephanie trained in classical sculpture at City & Guilds Art School, she has 30 years experience working as a commercial sculptor and tutor.

This course is suitable for all ability levels, there is a maximum of 8 students. All tools, materials and refreshments are provided.

Cost:

£360 for the 3 days

Times:

Friday 7th, Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th June from 10 - 5 pm

Booking:

To reserve your place on the course please email me at [email protected]. Your place can only be reserved on receipt of a deposit. Fees are non-refundable up to 3 weeks before the first session but in the event the course is cancelled the students fees will be fully refunded.

Stephanie Rubin

🎄✨ Calling all stall holders! ✨🎄Rye Creative Centre is thrilled to announce our upcoming Christmas Market on 23rd and 24...
17/05/2024

🎄✨ Calling all stall holders! ✨🎄

Rye Creative Centre is thrilled to announce our upcoming Christmas Market on 23rd and 24th November, and we’re on the lookout for talented stall holders to join us!

Do you have a knack for creating unique arts, crafts, or delicious edibles? This is your chance to showcase your work to a festive crowd and make this holiday season extra special!

We're looking for:

🎨 Arts & Crafts: Handmade gifts, decorations, jewelry, and more!
🍪 Edibles: Homemade treats, baked goods, artisanal foods, and festive delights!

Send us a message or email us at [email protected] to secure your spot. Let’s make this Christmas Market the best one yet!



https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/

17/05/2024

Painting of the Day, , Kath and Owen, Eugene Palmer,

Part of , now on at until 18th May.

See our link in bio for a preview of works for sale.

16/05/2024
16/05/2024

Painting of the Day, , Heatwave, Nicholas Middleton,

Part of , now on at until 18th May.

See our link in bio for a preview of works for sale.

15/05/2024

Painting of the Day, , Head (Hell), Dan Howard-Birt,

Part of , now on at until 18th May.

See our link in bio for a preview of works for sale.

'La Traviata'Showing at Rye Creative Centre on 29 June 2024.A dynamic, contemporary take on Verdi’s classic tale of love...
13/05/2024

'La Traviata'

Showing at Rye Creative Centre on 29 June 2024.

A dynamic, contemporary take on Verdi’s classic tale of love and loss featuring one of the most iconic scores of all time.

Living life on her own terms, glamorous Violetta falls in love with young poet Alfredo. But their intoxicating romance takes a devastating turn when Violetta becomes the target of society’s double standards. Faced with an impossible choice, she sacrifices what may be her only chance of real love. When all is revealed, will it be too late?

Barefoot Opera brings a fresh, youthful take to Verdi’s classic tale, with physical theatre, movement and stripped-back staging, whilst the performers are accompanied by a small group of musicians on piano, clarinet, double bass and accordion, collectively known as the Barefoot Band.

A production for newcomers to opera as much as opera lovers, the outstanding international cast, including rising star Turkish soprano Beren Kader Fidan as Violetta, and South African-born tenor Tylor Lamani as Alfredo, will perform alongside singers from community choirs, schools and colleges from across Kent, Sussex and London.

Verdi’s opera pulls at the heart strings with its extraordinary music, and, touching on themes of envy, hypocrisy and toxic masculinity, is as relevant today as it ever was. Contrasting party scenes with tender intimate moments, this is a must-see opera event!

For more information and tickets, please see https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/exhibitionsandevents/la-traviata

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Congratulations to Rye Creative Centre studio holder, Caroline Fraser Photography 👏
13/05/2024

Congratulations to Rye Creative Centre studio holder, Caroline Fraser Photography 👏

Truly amazed and delighted that my image ‘Conversation Piece 4’ is winner in the abstract category of the 23rd Julia Margaret Cameron non professional awards.

This work was created by the play of sunlight on water.

13/05/2024
The opening night of 'Assembly', the Contemporary British Painting exhibition at Rye Creative Centre, was a resounding s...
10/05/2024

The opening night of 'Assembly', the Contemporary British Painting exhibition at Rye Creative Centre, was a resounding success. Hundreds of art lovers crossed the bridge to explore our exquisite venue and the extensive collection of artworks displayed.

This exhibition features a diverse group of artists from the Contemporary British Painting collective, representing regions across the UK and Ireland, along with guest artists from Rye and surrounding counties. Their works collectively offer a rich tapestry of artistic styles and expressions.

The event kicked off at 6 PM at 'The Old Gym', a beautifully transformed former school gymnasium now serving as an ideal gallery and theatre space. The atmosphere was lively with guests enjoying refreshments and absorbing the art, highlighted by inspiring speeches from Paula MacArthur, a resident artist and participant in the exhibition, who worked tirelessly organising and curating the exhibition, and Dr. Julian Day, Art Director of Rye Art Gallery.

The exhibition will continue to welcome visitors from Thursday to Sunday until May 18. Make sure to seize the opportunity to experience this vibrant showcase.

Additionally, tonight (May 10) from 5 PM to 8 PM, and tomorrow (May 11) from 10 AM to 4 PM, the New Road Artists will host an Open Studio event. This is a unique chance to see the artists in their creative spaces and gain insight into their artistic processes.

Both events offer free parking and free admission. During Open Studios on Saturday 11 May, local coffeeshop, Groundup CoffeeShop, will be providing tasty drinks and snacks too - what's more to like!

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For more information about 'Assembly', please see:
https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/exhibitionsandevents/assembly-exhbition

For more information about Open Studios, please see:
https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/exhibitionsandevents/new-road-artists-spring-open-studios

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With special thanks to Kt Bruce for the amazing photos and for attending on behalf of Rye News.

New Road Artists are once again opening their studio doors this weekend. Open Studios is a chance to dive into the creat...
10/05/2024

New Road Artists are once again opening their studio doors this weekend. Open Studios is a chance to dive into the creative world of Rye Creative Centre’s studio holders, offering a firsthand look at their diverse talents and artistic process.

This evening between 5PM and 8PM and tomorrow between 10AM and 4PM, the centre transforms into a hub of creativity as studios open to the public. Visitors can explore a variety of artwork, from paintings and sculptures to jewellery and textiles. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this weekend.

Engage in conversations, ask questions, buy art, and gain insight into their inspirations and techniques. Pop along this evening or tomorrow with your friends and enjoy the art work on display and meet the artists.

It's free admission and free parking too, and we have the amazing Groundup CoffeeShop providing tasty drinks and snacks all day Saturday!

03/05/2024

Painting of the Day, , Nashgumbrooke Phantoms II, Joe Packer,

Part of at 3-18th May.
See our for a preview of works for sale

We are excited to announce the opening of the 'Assembly' exhibition at Rye Creative Centre taking place tonight from 6PM...
03/05/2024

We are excited to announce the opening of the 'Assembly' exhibition at Rye Creative Centre taking place tonight from 6PM to 8PM! Join us for an evening filled with captivating art and engaging conversations.

This exhibition brings together a diverse array of artists from the Contemporary British Painting collective, which includes members from across the United Kingdom and Ireland. It also features guest artists from Rye and the neighboring counties, showcasing a broad spectrum of artistic expression.

This event is designed to appeal to both art enthusiasts and those seeking a unique evening experience, so we encourage you to bring along friends and enjoy the amazing works on display. With complimentary admission and parking, plus an on-site bar, there are plenty of reasons to visit.

The exhibition will continue to be open from Thursday to Sunday, 10AM to 5PM, until May 18. Additionally, do not miss the Spring Open Studios event next Friday from 5PM to 8PM and Saturday from 10AM to 4PM, where artists from Rye Creative Centre will open their studios to the public, giving a unique insight into where and how they work.

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For more information about the exhibition:
👉 https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/exhibitionsandevents/assembly-exhbition.

For more information about the open studios:
👉 https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/exhibitionsandevents/new-road-artists-spring-open-studios.

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🎨 Day 3: Installation update from Rye Creative Centre artist, Paula MacArthur. We're now on day three of our most challe...
02/05/2024

🎨 Day 3: Installation update from Rye Creative Centre artist, Paula MacArthur.

We're now on day three of our most challenging installation yet, ‘Assembly’, and I'm excited to report that it's looking fantastic. We're almost ready to open our doors - just a final sweep and a last check on the artwork list.

Huge thanks to my co-curators .absolon, , and , whose expertise has been invaluable. Appreciation also goes out to , , , , and for their efforts in bringing this project to life.

We're eager to show you what we've created, so pop in tomorrow, Friday 3rd May, between 6-8pm for the preview or Thursday to Sunday 10am-5pm until 18th May.

For more information, please visit https://ryecreativecentre.co.uk/exhibitionsandevents/assembly-exhbition

29/04/2024

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New Road
Rye
TN317LS

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The RCC was launched as a centre of creative excellence in 2009 in the decommissioned Freda Gardham School on the road to Camber. It provides a unique resource for the people of Rye and beyond. Visiting and resident artists offer a range of workshops, master-classes, talks, demonstrations and exhibitions throughout the year. For more information please visit our website www.ryecreativecentre.co.uk . Our studio holders are known collectively as the New Road Artists. This group is made up of a dynamic and exciting mix of artists from a range of backgrounds and traditions.


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