Artists open their doors for return of E8 Art and Craft Trail

Artists and makers across E8 will open their homes and studios to the public this month for the return of the E8 Art and Craft Trail, the free self-guided weekend event celebrating Dalston’s long tradition of art and craft.

Now in its fifth year, the trail runs from 11am to 5pm on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June. Work on show and for sale will span ceramics, prints, photography, jewellery, textiles, drawings and both traditional and contemporary painting, with a number of new artists joining established names from previous years.

All venues are within walking distance of one another, and can be found on an interactive map on the trail’s website, which can also be downloaded and printed or followed on a phone.

This year the Eastern Curve Garden will house additional local artists in its new indoor space, while the George pub and the Stow Brothers have again lent their spaces to the event.

“Being a part of the four previous E8 Art & Craft Trails and seeing the event go from strength to strength has been really life-affirming and a testament to the power of creativity in our local Hackney community,” said Jim Boddington, organiser and ceramicist.

Fellow organiser and artist Hedy Parry-Davies said the trail celebrated the area’s creative heritage. “I’ve lived in Dalston since the mid 80s and the one constant has been the presence of artists and musicians here. It’s great to see this heritage celebrated and be part of its continuation.”

Frances Steele, a painter and organiser, said the event had brought people together. “It has been so good to take part in the trail — I’ve met so many neighbours and fellow artists through it.”

The E8 Art and Craft Trail was set up in 2022 by three long-term E8 residents to showcase the area’s tradition of art and craft.

The E8 Art and Craft Trail runs from 11am to 5pm on Saturday 20 and Sunday 21 June. Entry is free. For a map of the trail and details of the individual artists and makers, visit www.e8artandcrafttrail.co.uk or follow @e8artandcrafttrail on social media.