Art in the Octagon 2026
If you’ve ever admired a beautiful painting, sculpture or handcrafted piece and wondered, “How did they create that?”, then this is the event for you.
High Peak Artists’ flagship exhibition, Art in the Octagon, returns to The Octagon, Pavilion Gardens 13th – 15th July 2026, bringing together more than 30 talented local artists for three inspiring days of creativity, live demonstrations and the chance to meet the makers behind the artwork.
Taking place from 10am – 5pm each day, this free event is one of the highlights of Buxton’s cultural calendar and forms part of the Buxton Festival Fringe, where it was nominated for Best Visual Arts Event in 2025.
More Than an Art Exhibition
Art in the Octagon is far more than a traditional exhibition. Alongside displaying and selling their work, many artists will be demonstrating their creative techniques throughout the event, giving visitors a fascinating insight into the skills behind each piece.
Watch talented makers in action as they demonstrate crafts including:
- Woodturning
- Jewellery making
- Weaving
- Silk painting
- Pottery
- Printmaking
- Photography techniques
- And much more
It’s a rare opportunity to see the creative process unfold before your eyes and ask questions directly to the artists themselves.
Meet the Artists
Visitors will have the chance to chat with many of High Peak Artists’ members, including silk painter Pauline Townsend, textile artist Tracey Coverley, printmaker Jill Kerr, ceramic artist Karin Findell, urban sketcher David Steeden and more.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet this year’s special guest artists. Clare Allan, a fine artist and printmaker, will be showcasing her beautiful landscapes and street scenes inspired by the High Peak. Joining her are Rob and Sally Wilson – Rob is an award-winning mixed-media artist renowned for his vibrant paintings of local landscapes, while Sally is a talented textile artist who creates whimsical lampshades and striking 2D artworks using hand-dyed fabrics.
For a full list of exhibitors – click HERE.
Make a Day of It
The exhibition takes place in the iconic The Octagon Hall within Buxton’s beautiful Pavilion Gardens, making it the perfect place to spend a few hours exploring art, meeting local artists and enjoying the lively festival atmosphere.
While you’re there, don’t miss Gallery in the Gardens, where High Peak Artists’ members showcase and sell their work all year round. Visitors can also browse the Waterstones pop-up bookshop at the entrance to the Octagon as part of the Buxton International Festival.
If all that exploring leaves you feeling peckish, enjoy lunch or a coffee at the Pavilion Kitchen, or treat yourself to an ice cream from the Ice Cream Parlour before continuing your visit.
Plan Your Visit
📅 13th – 15th July 2026
🕙 10am – 5pm daily
📍 The Octagon Hall, Pavilion Gardens, Buxton
🎟️ Free entry
Whether you’re an art lover, looking for a unique day out, or simply curious to see how beautiful works of art are created, Art in the Octagon promises inspiration, creativity and a warm welcome for visitors of all ages.
Gallery in the Gardens, Pavilion Gardens, St. John’s Road, Buxton, SK17 6BE
T: 07849 673058 / 01298 23114
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