Thetford Open Studios returns this September with a five-day celebration of artisan skills at Maker’s Cottage on Magdalen Street, 17th-21st September 2025.
Each day will see different makers showcasing their work, from ceramics and textiles to engraving, printing and painting.
Among the line-up is Emily Chapman, whose quirky, nature-inspired artwork has led to a new painting of Thetford. Emily’s original will be on display all week, with limited edition prints and merchandise in the works. She will be at Maker’s Cottage in person on Saturday 20th September, demonstrating her painting skills.
Ceramicist Brett Straight will show his latest sgraffito range (17th, 18th, 20th & 21st September), while Gill Thornton will be demonstrating linocut printing (19th & 21st September). Rick Stephenson, a well-known Thetford artist and engraver, will share his skills on 19th & 21st September, alongside his paintings and bespoke work.
Textile artist Yvonne Pratt (18th & 20th September) creates pieces inspired by animals and nature, using reclaimed fabrics, embroidery and printing. Award-winning artist Annette Morgan will appear on 17th September with her distinctive textile work, while her husband Dan Morgan will be present throughout, with paintings, sculptures and prints inspired by landscape and archaeology.
Multi-talented Chris Sanderson will also be there every day, needle-felting and spinning, while Janet Smith-Gibbons (17th–21st September) shows her copper jewellery, inspired by plants and flowers. Julie Eagle brings her creations made from found and recycled items, and will be present on most days.
With such a rich programme of makers, Thetford Open Studios promises a week of creativity and inspiration. Here’s a look at the full programme to help you plan your visit:
Wednesday 17/9/2025
11am–2pm: Annette Morgan, Dan Morgan, Julie Eagle, Chris Sanderson
2pm–5pm: Annette Morgan, Dan Morgan, Janet SG, Brett Straight, Julie Eagle, Chris Sanderson
Thursday 18/9/2025
11am–2pm: Dan Morgan, Janet SG, Chris Sanderson, Yvonne Pratt
2pm–5pm: Dan Morgan, Janet SG, Brett Straight, Chris Sanderson, Yvonne Pratt
Friday 19/9/2025
11am–2pm: Rick Stephenson, Dan Morgan, Janet SG, Julie Eagle, Chris Sanderson
2pm–5pm: Gill Thornton, Rick Stephenson, Dan Morgan, Julie Eagle, Chris Sanderson
Saturday 20/9/2025
11am–2pm: Emily Chapman, Dan Morgan, Brett Straight, Julie Eagle, Chris Sanderson, Janet SG, Yvonne Pratt
2pm–5pm: Emily Chapman, Dan Morgan, Brett Straight, Julie Eagle, Chris Sanderson, Janet SG
Sunday 21/9/2025
11am–2pm: Rick Stephenson, Dan Morgan, Brett Straight, Julie Eagle, Chris Sanderson, Janet SG
2pm–5pm: Gill Thornton, Rick Stephenson, Dan Morgan, Brett Straight, Julie Eagle, Chris Sanderson, Janet SG
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