East Beach Studios

Following my visit to East Beach Studios last month, it is safe to say that it is a must-visit space for you and your family this summer� There is something there for everyone!

Nestled along the coastline, East Beach Studios stands as a testament to the creative spirit and community-driven ethos of Worthing’s local art scene� Formerly beach huts rented by the public, these charming spaces were transformed into art studios about 15 years ago by the previous owner of Coast Café� Today, Beth and Angie (pictured above), two passionate artists run this unique venture, which has become a thriving hub for independent artists� At East Beach Studio, the concept of community is at the heart of everything they do� The studios have evolved from just traditional long-term rentals to a mix of month-to-month pop-up studios and long-term rentals, ensuring a dynamic environment where artists can flourish� The studios are open from Thursday to Saturday, with artists in each studio present during those days, fostering a unique sense of camaraderie while allowing the public to engage directly with the creators�

Beth explains, “A lot of people here have relationships with locals who might be walking their dog or doing their daily walk, so there are always conversations, and it’s a proper community. We’re a bit like a dysfunctional family!”

The history of East Beach Studios is intertwined with the evolution of the Worthing art scene� When Coast changed ownership three and a half years ago, the new proprietor decided not to continue with the studios� Therefore Beth, who started as an artist here nine years ago, took it upon herself to preserve this artistic haven alongside Angie� They introduced new systems, quality control measures and mentoring programs to create a cohesive and supportive environment for artists at different levels of experience�

The studio owners are actively involved in mentoring and supporting artists, particularly those who are exhibiting for the first time� From framing and pricing artwork to developing social media presence, Beth and Angie provide guidance and instil confidence in the artists� We focus on two of the artists�

Thomas Freer

Thomas, an artist at Each Beach Studios, has found solace in his creativity in this supportive community, fuelling his passion for making interactive therapeutic musical instruments out of wood� From the early days of East Beach when there were only five studios, Thomas stumbled upon an empty studio at the right time�

Before his time at East Beach, Thomas had been selling paintings, sculptures, and photographs of seagulls, to the point where he was unashamedly known as the ‘seagull man’ in Worthing, while working full-time to save up for the components of this bigger project, which is where his passion lies�

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It’s tricky as an artist going through a developmental stage or building up a portfolio for an exhibition because in all that time, you get stuck in full-time work and it’s really hard to keep your claws into your creativity, otherwise it can slip away. ”

East Beach Studios was a gamechanger for Thomas and his projects because it meant he could have a workshop and display space in one, allowing him to focus on the production of turning raw materials into a piece of art while the public are welcome to come and see the process and hear stories behind it�

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Having this space is essential for what I do because you can’t just sell it online. You’ve got to feel it, see it, touch it, you’ve got to hear it, experience it and you just can’t do that o a website�”

Thomas’s inspiration for his musical instruments has evolved over time� Initially incorporating interactive elements into his sculptures, he quickly discovered the positive impact they had on individuals with physical limitations� People recovering from strokes, injuries, or trauma, as well as those with disabilities, found solace and joy in Thomas’s creations� The ability to immediately create something beautiful through simple interactions struck a chord�

For Thomas, the essence of his art lies in its universal appeal� He believes that everyone can benefit from the joy of music and movement, regardless of background, abilities, or age� Music and movement have the power to liberate, bringing light and joy into peoples’ minds� Thomas feels fortunate to be able to create instruments that provide such experiences, all while enjoying the scenic view of the sea from his studio�

In a world where almost everything is online, art remains something that needs that human element to it� Art, in all its forms, brings joy, solace, companionship, and community�

CHLOE - ME-SHIRTS

Chloe, owner of ‘Me-Shirts’, has found her niche in personalised fabric-painting kits, offering a unique and creative experience for children� What started as a hobby and a bit of fun with her daughter during lockdown, quickly grew into a successful business� Originally based in Chloe’s old home in London, she would create and sell everything from one room, which could, at times, feel quite isolating�

After relocating to Worthing in late August, Chloe opened her studio at East Beach in October, marking nearly a year since her dream became a reality� Sitting on the steps of her studio, sipping coffee with a friend, she still finds the whole experience surreal�

The inspiring atmosphere and relaxed vibe of East Beach Studio provides the perfect backdrop for her creative work� Moreover, Chloe emphasizes the incredible sense of community among the artists at the studio, where they exchange advice, support one another, and share ideas�

Chloe’s approach to art is unique� While she doesn’t create traditional art pieces herself, she crafts tools and materials that allow children to unleash their creativity at home or during the workshops she holds� These workshops, taking place at a table outside her studio on Saturdays and during the summer holidays, offer children an opportunity to engage in art and tap into their imagination�

The soothing presence of the sea and waves combined with the freedom of creative expression creates a calming environment where children can stay engaged for extended periods of time� Parents are often amazed at how their kids can sit still and enjoy the artistic process� Chloe believes that art and creativity are essential for well-being, and East Beach Studio provides an ideal setting for children to explore their creative potential�

Chloe’s workshops also provide parents with a chance to spend quality time with their children� While kids are occupied and having fun, parents can enjoy a coffee from Coast, catch up with friends, or simply relax�

Me-Shirts offers parties and gifts that are unique and non-disposable� MeShirts appeal to children of all ages and genders, while also fostering community and connection�

So, why not visit East Beach Studios and embark on a creative adventure that will ensure lasting memories while also supporting our local artists? We will feature other artists in future months�