The Art Fair, central to FORM, showcases 100 exhibitors including painters, ceramicists, printmakers, jewellers, woodworkers, and sculptors, continuing to represent Cornwall’s long-standing artistic tradition.
A mix of free and ticketed art-related events, exhibitions and workshops will also take place in venues across Falmouth, a coastal town frequently voted as one of the top places to visit in the UK.
Building on the past two fairs’ successes, FORM returns again from Friday, September 20 to Sunday, September 22, to the beautiful, unique setting of Princess Pavilion, a community-led venue set in stunning gardens with the focal point of a wrought iron Edwardian bandstand.
Last year’s FORM attracted more than 5,000 visitors and its vibrant festival atmosphere is aided by street food vendors and a soundtrack supplied by local musicians.
This year, the music programme will be curated by local radio station Source FM, which will be broadcasting from the festival.
The Young Creatives Art Trail will also be making a return to shop windows, showcasing the work of 200 Falmouth Year 5 and 6 primary-age children who participated in art workshops held by local artists at the schools.
A not-for-profit organisation, FORM is spearheaded by two local creatives – Vicki Glaister of Inspire Makers, which presents the work of more than 60 Cornish contemporary design-led artists and craftspeople, and Ann Morgan of Morgans, an art and design gallery that is a well-respected addition to Cornwall’s contemporary art scene.
Already championing established and emerging Cornish talent through their own independent galleries in Falmouth, through FORM, Vicki and Ann introduce artists and makers to new audiences, support the growth of Falmouth’s dynamic artistic community and offer opportunities to learn more about the visual arts, as well as encouraging the public to purchase directly from these small creative enterprises and continue this legacy within their own homes.
Vicki and Ann said: “This county of Cornwall has long been a source of inspiration, refuge and community, both shaped by and simultaneously shaping the creatives who call it home.
“Artists and makers here are influenced by the rhythms of the landscape that surrounds us, inspired by both the raw dynamism and the gentle ebb and flow. We believe the art created in Cornwall is unparalleled and deserves to be celebrated by both familiar and new faces.”
FORM is supported by Falmouth BID and is part of a group of creative and cultural festivals working together as ‘Falmouth Creates’, set up during the Covid-19 pandemic to reflect the various elements of Falmouth’s vibrant cultural scene and community.
Richard Wilcox, executive director of Falmouth BID, said: “Falmouth’s Festival calendar gets bigger and better every year and we are delighted to be able to support FORM Falmouth via Falmouth BID under our umbrella grouping of Falmouth Creates.
“With Falmouth University and countless creative businesses continually setting up across our vibrant community, FORM Falmouth is a brilliant example of grassroots ideation that has transformed with the support and nurturing of the Falmouth BID and the surrounding creative colleagues and community.
“Falmouth is a dynamic and creative destination which punches well above its weight, attracting people from all around the world for its festivals and events which all drive locals and visitors alike into our excellent food and drink scene, bustling high street and community offering.”
The full programme of events is available on FORM’s website at www.formfalmouth.com.
Location: Falmouth
