Sunday is a huge celebration for Hotwalls Studios down at Old Portsmouth as it celebrates 5 years being open at this site. We all know this area has an amazing history as part of Portsmouth's heritage but the fact these arches stood empty and mostly misused for a long time really gave food for thought to the council. In 2014, Portsmouth City Council worked hard to develop and create 13 studio spaces that enhance the Cultural Industries and this is something to be proud of from a cultural point of view.
You can expect on Sunday 4th July from 11am until 4pm, free workshops and tasty street food. There will be guest artists including ceramicists from The Makers Guild offering have-a-go sessions on a pottery wheel, and live spray painting from Portsmouth street artists. Alice Hume (Vanderhume, Studio 9) will be leading free weaving with Ports Fest, while James Mouland Ebru Studio will be leading in outdoor marble-printing. All of the studios will be open and this is a chance to meet the maker or artist in residence there, and buy something handmade or painted from their studio.
The great thing about Hotwalls is that it offers a community feel, inviting the public to share this stretch and wander down for a stroll around the outside space. On a lovely day, nothing beats a walk along the top walls and hitting the ice cream van at the bottom. Having a spectacular view across the Solent means it really is a place of beauty. The shingled beach behind the studios offers a wonderful view and sunbathing point that is very popular in the Summer and allows for spending a few hours amongst the barrack walls that defended our shores many years ago.
Having an independent, thriving cafe like The Canteen really helps boost the tourism there and now there is more seating outside where you can rest your tired legs and grab some food or drink gives the perfect opportunity to drop by.
So pop along tomorrow and join in the fun. If there is a chance of rain then gazebo's will be erected and the Round Tower will be on hand to be used as an extra space!
To find out more about Hotwalls and visit their Social Media please click on the links below.
Photo Credit to Hotwalls
