Towards the Light

2022 is the 40^th anniversary of Artists Open Houses which was initiated by Ned Hoskins and this year is a tribute to him. The Ceramic House is in Fiveways, where the Open Houses movement began, and over the years it has grown to encompass all parts of the city, out to Ditchling and to several villages and towns across the Downs. It is a tribute is to the strength of Ned Hoskins’ original idea that the festival continues to build and flourish and is now in its 40th year.

The theme of this exhibition, Towards the Light, is taken from the title of one of Ned Hoskins’ paintings. The exhibition invited submissions, connecting to the theme, from all artists taking part this year in the Artists Open Houses festival.

Ned was distinctly inspired by the environment, seeking out nature and places to wander whenever possible; from his early days at art school in Harrogate where he painted on the Yorkshire Moors, through to his time in California, Europe and more locally, where his work took frequent inspiration from the South Downs. As we all look towards brighter moments after recent restrictions, Ned’s work, actions and legacies offer a fabulous opportunity to remember how important it is to take risks, make art and work with your community.

Ned Hoskins was a trailblazer who started something so pertinent that its relevance resonates as strongly today as 40 years ago. As artists continue to seek ways to show their work, support each other and build a stronger art sector, Artists Open Houses is proud to spotlight the inspiring actions of Ned Hoskins who, 40 years ago, created a movement enabling access to art for everyone, by simply opening his front door and inviting the public inside to view his work.