Thousands flocked to the heart of Norwich as the region’s largest and liveliest art fair returned to the city.

 Now in its tenth year, record numbers of creatives, art lovers and people curious about art descended on Art Fair East which was held in the spectacular setting of The Assembly House. 

With celebrated artists, galleries and art dealers setting up stand, organisers Brian Korteling and Will Teather said the line-up of contemporary art drew visitors from far and wide. 

“There was such a warm atmosphere”

Will said: “This year’s fair was our tenth edition and saw record visitor numbers across the weekend. There was such a warm atmosphere amongst visitors and guests, which made our job as organisers a real pleasure. 

“There were many highlights, but we were particularly proud this year to be chosen by Claire Oxley to launch her new venture, Pimpernel Gallery. 

“We are extremely grateful to The Assembly House for hosting us in such beautiful surroundings and excited to return to the revamped Halls for 2026. We love using city landmarks that add magic to the whole experience. 

“Thanks to all our incredible artists and galleries for pulling together such a fantastic show, our amazing build team and front of house, our publicity and admin team, the venue staff who bent over backwards to help, and of course our lovely sponsors.” 

The fair annually hosts a range of contemporary art including painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, video art, installation, urban and street art and original limited-edition prints. Artists and dealers were on hand across the weekend of the fair to talk to visitors about their work, all of which was for sale. 

Norwich painter Jenni Murphy took part for the first time this year, she said: “Each figure I paint comes from real life, from real people and moments. 

“What I loved about showing at Art Fair East was seeing how those stories sparked new ones. Visitors recognised a feeling and began sharing their own warm, funny or heartfelt moments. That’s what art is about for me, creating space to pause and remember what really makes us human.” 

Claire Oxley, who launched Pimpernel Gallery at the Fair, said: “Launching Pimpernel Gallery at Art Fair East was the best decision. And the energy! The private view is always buzzing, and there’s rarely a quiet moment during the whole weekend. Footfall is everything you’d hope for in a regional art fair and, whilst of course there are guests who solely want the experience of looking at the huge selection of art on show, there are buyers too. 

“I encourage artists to take the leap of showing at this fabulous event. We’re lucky to have it in Norwich.” 

Organisers have announced that Art Fair East will return to The Halls in 2026. Prior to being hosted at The Assembly House for the past two years, Art Fair East spent its first eight years in the grand setting of St Andrew’s Hall, where it is set to return next year. 

Any artists interested in taking part in Art Fair East in 2026 can apply when applications open later in December 2025. 

Art Fair East is sponsored by Chadwicks Wealth alongside Dipple & Conway. Since 2024, The Assembly House has been venue sponsor. 

For more information visit www.artfaireast.com