Open Lates: GUIDE | GATHER 
Thursday 27 August, 5 - 8pm 
The Ballroom, Fenton Town Hall 

Join us our second special late‑night opening of the Three Counties Open Art Exhibition, offering a relaxed, sociable evening of art, conversation and creativity. The galleries will stay open into the evening, giving you the chance to explore the Three Counties Open Exhibition after hours and experience the work in a different light. 

From 5pm onwards, drop into the Origami Flowers workshop led by Tracey Cartlidge (The Happy Makers). Discover the calming, mindful art of Japanese paper folding as you transform colourful papers into delicate handcrafted flowers, arranged in your own miniature vase to take home. Suitable for all abilities, this free workshop offers a gentle creative pause within the gallery setting. 
 
Join a Guided Tour of the Open with local artist and educator Terry Shave (5:45–6:30pm). Moving through the exhibition together, Terry will pause at selected works to share insights into artists’ styles, themes and creative approaches. This informal tour invites you to explore your understanding of the exhibition, ask questions and enjoy the atmosphere of an open‑late event. 

Join Art UK and multidisciplinary artist, and winner of this years Open Art Prize, Jon Paul Green for a fun, creative activity to look more closely at the artworks in the exhibition. You'll be able to choose an artwork, describe what you can see and feel, then put those words together to create your own poetry or prose in response. All ages are welcome and no previous experience is needed. 

With the bar open throughout, it’s a chance to explore at your own pace, connect with others and enjoy the gallery in a relaxed, social atmosphere. 

Programme 

5:00–8:00pm Origami Flowers – drop‑in workshop with Tracey Cartlidge  

5:45–6:30pm Guided Tour – with Terry Shave 

6:30–8:00pm After‑hours access – exhibition, creative drop‑ins and bar 

6:30 – 8:00pm Tagger – drop‑in activity with Art UK 

8:00pm Event ends 

 
This event is organised with the support of and in partnership with the Haggar Memorial Trust, celebrating the life and legacy of Reginald George Haggar (1905–1988), whose work as an artist, ceramic designer and educator shaped the cultural life of Stoke‑on‑Trent and North Staffordshire. 

With generous support from the Raymond Williams Foundation and Chris & Valerie Ensor. 

This is a free event and everyone is welcome. No booking is required for general entry or the drop‑in activities. To guarantee a place on the guided tour, please book via the link below. 

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Register now