A Personal Journey Through Creativity and Community  

The Alnmouth Arts Festival turned 20 this year—a milestone for one of Northumberland’s most beloved cultural events. It’s an occasion I always love returning to, not just as an exhibiting artist, but because Alnmouth village holds a very special place in my heart. I have many happy childhood memories of visiting my grandparents here in the 1980s, and that deep connection to place has continued to shape my creative work.

As a Northumberland artist, I’ve had the joy of exhibiting at the festival at least 15 times over the years and was honoured to be asked to design the official festival poster back in 2009. Since then, the event has gone from strength to strength—becoming the perfect showcase for my paintings of Alnmouth and the Northumberland coast.

A Brief History of the Alnmouth Arts Festival

The Alnmouth Arts Festival began in 2005 as the brainchild of local artist and parish councillor Judy Hill, who wanted to bring together creativity and community in this picturesque coastal village. Initially operating under the Alnmouth Parish Council, the festival has grown year on year and recently evolved into a Community Interest Company to support its growing scope.

Now one of the biggest events in the village calendar, the festival features over 50 artists, craftspeople, and designers each year, exhibiting in more than 20 public and private venues—from Hindmarsh Hall to charming sheds and garages scattered throughout the village. While the exhibition and sale of art remain the heart of the event, the weekend also offers a variety of performances, workshops, and activities that celebrate Alnmouth’s creative spirit.

My Personal Journey with the Festival

My journey with the festival began in a wonderfully informal way—over a cup of tea at Judy Hill’s kitchen table with fellow artist Sue Fenlon. They were planning to expand the festival and asked if I’d design the 2007 poster. All good planning starts around a kitchen table, doesn’t it?

I still remember my first time exhibiting: church pews served as makeshift galleries, and artists were squeezed into every available space—houses, garages, even garden sheds. Over the years, it’s grown with care and commitment, thanks to a dedicated committee and the support of the local community, who continue to open their homes and hearts to the arts.

Exhibiting here is always a delight. I’ve met countless art lovers, reconnected with old friends, and even wrangled two-year-old twins while trying to talk about paintings—definitely my most challenging festival year! But Alnmouth always feels welcoming, and it’s a joy to bring my family along each time.

The 2025 Alnmouth Arts Festival

After a few years away—due to the pandemic and the launch of our own art gallery—it was a real pleasure to return this summer. I had missed the connection: with the people, the place, and the atmosphere that makes this festival so special.

There’s something magical about walking into the village from the beach car park, taking in the sea air before being swept up in the festival buzz. This year, I exhibited in the Hindmarsh Hall alongside fellow creatives including Jane Charles Glass and Blinking Imp.

Preparing for the festival inspired me to create a new series of smaller works based on the Northumberland coastal path—a fresh, energising project with the perfect setting to launch it.

Paintings of Alnmouth: A Lasting Muse

Alnmouth continues to inspire my work, again and again. From the vibrant charm of Lovaine Terrace (best viewed from across the river—or the train window!) to the soft dunes, sailboats on the Aln, and the iconic Ferryman’s Hut, the village offers endless material for the canvas.

Each season brings something new: wild poppies in the dunes, colourful coastal gardens in full bloom, and that ever-changing North Sea light. It’s no surprise Alnmouth has remained a consistent muse in my career as a painter.

Final Thoughts: Looking Back, Looking Forward

A huge thank you to everyone who visited my exhibition this year—it was wonderful to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new visitors discovering Northumberland art for the first time. As an artist who usually works alone, it’s incredibly refreshing to spend a weekend immersed in conversation and community.

Northumberland is home to so many gifted creatives, and I’m honoured to be part of this vibrant artistic landscape. Here’s to the continued success of the Alnmouth Arts Festival—and heartfelt thanks to the brilliant committee of volunteers who make it all happen year after year.

If you’d like to see more of my paintings of Alnmouth, you can visit my website or stop by my art gallery in Cullercoats. Originals tend to sell quickly, so sign up to my 'Collectors Club' newsletter to get early access to new releases.

See you at the festival next year!