The Makers Directory

Day 2: Why Sussex? 🌿🎨

There’s something about Sussex that keeps me inspired.

Living and working on the edge of Ashdown Forest, I’m surrounded by an ever-changing landscape — woodland, open heath, rolling Downs, wildflowers, farmland and an incredible sense of space. 🌳🌾

I’m constantly noticing little details: the way light moves through the trees, the shape of a seed head, the colours of the changing seasons, or the way a landscape stretches towards the horizon.

It’s these everyday encounters with nature that often find their way onto my canvas. I love being able to take my easel outside, observe the landscape directly and let the place itself influence the colours, marks and composition of a painting.

For me, Sussex isn’t just where I live and work — it’s part of my creative process. 💚

And one of the things I love most about being part of the creative community here is the incredible variety of artists and makers working locally. There is so much talent, generosity and inspiration to discover.

I’d love to know — what inspires you about Sussex? And are there any local makers or artists you think deserve a little more love? Tag them below! 👇✨

📸 by @getmediasavvy_

#AshdownForestOpenStudios #AFOS #AshdownForest #SussexArtists #SussexMakers