5 SEPTEMBER 2026

Entry to the Open Day is FREE, and you are very welcome to visit without attending any of our paid activities. However, if you plan to attend without booking a ticketed activity, please register your visit in advance Using the button below - we look forward to welcoming you.

Tour Times:

TOUR A: 10:15 - 11:15am

TOUR B: 11:45am - 12:45pm

Visitors will enjoy a full studio tour with Sarah Gillham, exploring Matt Black Barn’s history and the work of Andrew Sabin and Laura Ford. See sculpture in progress and discover the processes involved, from conception and realisation through to storage, distribution and installation.

Tours are Suitable for all ages, children must be accompanied by an adult.

Demonstration 1: 1–1.30pm

Demonstration 2: 2–2.30pm

Take the opportunity to step inside the working life of Matt Black Barn through two live studio demonstrations led by Head Studio Technician, Jasmine Simpson.

Jasmine plays a central role in the studio, assisting both Andrew Sabin and Laura Ford in the production of a wide range of works with a breadth of technical knowledge, she will demonstrate key processes used within the studio, offering a rare chance to see how materials are shaped, handled, and transformed.

These short demonstration sessions will provide an up-close look at the methods behind the work.

No registration for demonstrations necessary.

12.30-1.00pm

Be among the first to see our new exhibition of work by Andrew Sabin and Laura Ford. Take time to look closely at the work and discover the ideas, materials and processes behind the work.

Andrew and Laura will be available throughout the session to talk about their work and answer your questions.

No registration necessary for this session.

Session 1: 10.30am–1pm

Session 2: 2.00–4.30pm

Visit the Hut by the lake and take part in a series of art-making activities specially designed by our Director of Learning, Holly Fox-Lee. Open to all ages, no booking is required.

Drop in during either Make Session and spend as much time as you like experimenting with materials and ideas.

No registration necessary for these sessions.

Throughout the Open Day, Coffee Kick will be serving high-quality coffee alongside a selection of fresh, locally sourced refreshments. Expect freshly baked pastries, hearty flapjacks and artisan cookies, as well as iced coffees, soft drinks and bottled water.

Coffee Kick will be on hand throughout the day to keep you refreshed while you explore, make and enjoy the programme. 

Please feel welcome to bring a picnic with you and enjoy spending some extra time relaxing in the sun!

Sat 7 June

Entry to the Open Day is FREE, and you are very welcome to visit without attending a workshop or tour. However, if you plan to attend without booking a ticketed activity, please register your visit in advance. Please use the button below - we look forward to welcoming you.

Sessions:

Sat 7 June 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM or 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

Join sculptor Wilfrid Wood for a fun and interactive workshop where you’ll explore faces through the art of sculpture!

Create a unique piece of art that captures the expressions and energy of someone special—whether it’s a friend, family member, or even a favourite celebrity. Play with colour, shape, and form as you discover your own way of expressing the unique character and personality of your subject.

In this hands-on session, you'll experiment with sculpting faces out of plasticine and leave with your very own plasticine sculpture to take home!

Suitable for ages 16+

Photograph: Ellius Grace

Sessions:

Sat 7 June 11 -12.30 or 2.00 -3.30PM

Join Emily Warren for a fun-filled and creative day of exploration in the world of paper mâché! In this hands-on workshop, you'll have the opportunity to craft your own unique paper mâché model, whether it's a bird, bug, or beast—let your imagination run wild!

Emily will guide you through her signature techniques, encouraging you to embrace the messy, artistic process as you bring your creature to life.

Perfect for beginners or anyone looking to expand their skills, this workshop promises a day of creativity, fun, and plenty of messy moments. Don’t miss out on this chance to make something amazing and learn a new craft!

Suitable 16+

Sat 7 June, Times:

TOUR A: 10:00 - 10:45am

TOUR B: 11:30am - 12:45pm

TOUR C: 1:30pm - 2:15pm

TOUR D: 3:00pm- 3:45pm

Visitors will be shown around the studios where sculptures will be being made in a wide variety of processes, both traditional and experimental.  Visitors will see the full range of procedures that contribute to the professional activity of being an artist from conception through realisation, storage, distribution and installation. There will be the opportunity to meet with the artists and discuss with them issues ranging from creativity and making artwork through to economics , networking and studio management as well as all matters practical.

Tours are Suitable for all ages, children under 16’s go free, please supply their details when booking. All under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult.