South East Open Studios is one of the most established annual arts events in the UK; it is a 17-day event showcasing creative talent, and strengthening visual arts across the whole region. The event takes place across Kent, East Sussex and the Surrey Borders, from Edenbridge to Ramsgate, Rochester to Hastings … and everywhere in between!

Tunbridge Wells artists Lucy Clayton and Elaine Gill are welcoming visitors into their studio. It’s a great opportunity to take a look behind the scenes and see some of the processes, techniques and inspiration that these two artist use to create their work.

Lucy is inspired by food, sea life and nature, often combining watercolour with ink or graphite, recently she was commissioned to illustrate The Natural Affinity Garden for Aspens, designed by The Garden Taylor for RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2023.

Elaine is inspired by architecture and illustrating people’s stories through buildings life events and memorable places. She is well known for her illustrated maps including visitor maps ofTunbridge Wells, Southborough and Scotty Castle. Her most recent project was to paint famous London landmarks on a life size model of Morph that will be part of the UK’s first step-free art trail taking place in London in June.

The studio is located in 12 Farmcombe Rd, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5DF