Three Counties Open Launch Event  
Saturday 8 August, 11am–3pm 

Celebrate the opening of the 30th Three Counties Open Art Exhibition, one of the region’s longest‑running and most vibrant exhibitions. Now in its thirtieth year, the exhibition showcases work by over 140 artists from across Staffordshire, Cheshire and Shropshire, offering a rich snapshot of creative practice in our three counties.  

The launch event is your first chance to explore this year’s exhibition, meet artists and makers, and enjoy a lively programme of free performances and activities throughout the day.

11am – Official Opening 
12pm – Gallery Tales: Stories Made Live Step into the world of the artworks with this immersive storytelling experience. Led by the New Vic Theatre’s Education team, Gallery Tales invites visitors to create original stories inspired by the works on display. Part of 40 Stories @ 40, celebrating four decades of community storytelling. Meet at the Welcome Desk. Approx. 25 minutes. Free.
1pm – Town Hall Choir Performance In the Ballroom, enjoy a special performance by Restoke’s Town Hall Choir, currently led by Ukrainian choirmaster Oksana Demkiv. The choir specialises in Eastern European polyphonic song, an uplifting moment within the heart of the exhibition.
11am–3pm – DJ & MC Ben McManus Throughout the day, DJ and MC Ben McManus will be on stage, bringing energy and atmosphere as you explore the artworks.
11am–3pm – Mosaic Tile Workshop Get hands‑on with artist Sally Fitchard in this drop‑in mosaic workshop. Experiment with colour, pattern and texture as you create your own small piece inspired by the exhibition. Suitable for all ages and abilities. Free, no booking required.
11am–3pm – Drop City Books Pop‑Up Drop City Books brings a curated selection of art books, independent titles and unexpected gems. Browse, rummage and discover something new in this mini pop‑up bookshop.

Following the launch the exhibition will then be open every Tuesday to Saturday, 11am – 3pm until Saturday 29^th August 2026.

No booking required, just drop in - all welcome!

Parking available on adjacent streets, P&D car park off Baker Street. 
The venue is accessible with a lift to the exhibition floor. The accessible route into the town hall is found along Gimson Street, the main entrance has a series of steps. Please notify a member of staff if you require any assistance. 

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