Now that the world is finally (fingers crossed) opening up again, I’d like to share a list of my favourite independent art and craft venues based in and around Southampton.
I know all of the artists mentioned, which means that I can vouch that they are all amazing at what they offer.
So here, in alphabetical order, is my list of the best places to visit for creative fun in and around Southampton.
There really is something for everyone here:
Bella Crafts
Whatever floats your crafting mojo, you will find a workshop to cater for it at Bella Crafts
Bella Crafts have two art and craft venues that are really popular with local people.
One based in Fair Oak, and one based in Winchester.
The atmosphere at Bella is always relaxed, and they also offer pop in sessions, where there is no need to book.
Many local artists and crafters run regular workshops at Bella Crafts, so if you are interested in trying something different, go ahead and check them out.
You’ll be amazed at what is on offer.
https://www.bellacrafts.co.uk/
The Clay Garden Tearoom
One of the best places to unwind and enjoy
This little gem is one of my favourite places to go for coffee.
Based in Chandlers Ford and run by local artist Frith Johnson, the selection of coffee and other drinks and food is second to none.
Quirky can be an overused word – but it absolutely sums up this little gem.
However, this blog is about getting stuck into art, so enough of my love of coffee. Because as if great food and beverages isn’t enough, at the back of the tearoom you will find the Clay Garden Workshop.
Here you can get tuition in painting for all levels and pottery from a very experienced and skilled artist
The Crafty Bug Café
Arts & Crafts for all ages
This community café art and craft venue is based in Woolston.
Lisa who runs it really does ensure that the community ethos runs through everything they offer.
It has always been a lovely venue, but over lockdown it has been transformed and expanded.
This venue now offers an even wider selection of arts & crafts, at very reasonable prices for the local community.
Crank Pots
Pottery for all ages and abilities
Based in Totton, Crank Pots art and craft venue is run by a lady called Pauline Bradbury whose smile is as bright as her hair colour.
Pauline is a hugely experienced potter and offers workshops for all ages and abilities
Creative Options
Creative Options offers so much more than just art & craft
Creative Options was founded by Francis Heather who is still very much the heart and soul of this project.
It is a community based charity that helps people with mental health issues to battle stigma, isolation and lack of opportunity.
Alongside many other services users can access creative workshops in a safe and inclusive environment
https://www.creative-options.org/
Don’t stop reading now – you are halfway through my top 10, there are more lovely venues waiting to be discovered:
Just for You
I want to have a go at this myself one day
Just For You is a craft supply shop located in Totton.
Just for you offers local crafters an outlet to showcase their makes as well as having a supply of beads, crafts and gift items.
The setting is relaxed and intimate, and as well as showcasing their makes, many crafters now run regular workshop sessions there.
https://www.justforyouhq.co.uk/
Jacqueline Rolls Willow Sculptor Artist
I really love this willow penguin
Willow sculpting is definitely on my list of things to have a go at.
Jacqueline offers a variety of workshops throughout Hampshire, and is also currently Artist in Residence at The Tudor House and Garden in Southampton.
She also creates her own willow sculptures, and is happy to do bespoke comissions.
https://www.widgety.co.uk/events/willow-woodpeckers-led-by-jacqueline-rolls
Kazies Encaustic Art
So much scope for creativity with encaustic art
I have never met anyone as passionate about encaustic art as Karen Tait Davies.
Her enthusiasm is infectious, and she really knows her craft having been a tutor for many years now.
Karen does workshops in many local venues.
You can check them out for yourself over on her facebook page
Kookies Crafts
Kookies offer all kinds of creative workshops
I first met Viv, who runs Kookies when I used to run Powertex Sculpting Workshops from her lovely venue based in Woolston.
I then had the privilege of training Viv up to become a Powertex tutor herself.
As well as Powertex Workshops, you can indulge in a plethora of other crafts at Kookies.
Viv is one of the nicest people you are ever likely to meet, and her workshops raise money for a small village in Malawi.
https://www.kookiescrafts.co.uk
Sally Goodden Animal Artist
Sally runs art classes from her workshop at home
Sally is a talented artist based in Chandlers Ford.
Over lockdown Sally took her art classes online, and they were very well received.
She still does online courses, but has also invested in her own workshop space in her garden where she runs courses for both adults and children.
Her painting style is bright and colourful and joyful.
if you like to embrace colour and joy in your art, then Sally is the tutor you need to be checking out.
Portraits and Fine Art By Sue Kerrigan-Harris
A workshop with Sue will teach you all you need to know about soft pastels
What can I say about local pastel artist Susan Kerrigan Harris, other than wow!!
I have known Sue for a number of years, and have always been blown away by her work.
However, lockdown seemed to unlock something within her, and she took her workshops online to tremendous success.
Apart from her mind blowing talent,
I think the key to Sue’s success as a tutor is her patience, and her gentle encouragement.
Alongside her online workshops Sue is also running regular workshops in Marchwood,
So there you have it.
My pick of places to get your creative fix if you live in and around Southampton.
I’m also going to be really cheeky and add in another of my favourites, which is just a short distance out of Southampton
Inspired & Create
Inspired & Create offers a variety of workshops
Inspired & Create is located in New Milton close to the New Forest.
However, I have included it as the lady who runs it is truly passionate about all things craft related, plus I occasionally run workshops from here myself.
Nicky the lovely owner is always keen to invite local craft facilitators to run workshops from her venue, and it is well worth checking out the website to see if there is anything here that floats your crafty boat (I’m willing to be there will be).
https://inspiredandcreate.co.uk/
I am a keen believer in supporting small local businesses, and each and every one of these venues had worked so hard to survive the lockdown.
If you are looking for somewhere to flex your artistic muscles, and learn something new, please do check them out.
They deserve our business.
