News Over 10,000 people visit community arts hub in first year
A community arts hub in Maidstone which has welcomed over 10,850 visitors since opening is gearing up to celebrate its first birthday.
Since its launch, in July 2025, Creative Maidstone Arts Hub has celebrated the work of much-loved artist Tony Hart with an exhibition, partnered with High Weald Swifts to create a beautiful swift puppet and made the prospect of owning art a reality with their affordable art exhibition.
Creative Maidstone, which was made possible through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and further supported by Maidstone Borough Council, quickly become a welcoming home for artists, makers, residents and visitors alike.
In addition to the thousands of visitors through its doors it has offered hands-on workshops and creative events, while supporting local artists through affordable studio space, retail opportunities and professional exhibition facilities.
The creative space features seven affordable artist studios, a dedicated exhibition gallery, workshop area and an artisan shop showcasing the work of 32 local artists and makers.
Alongside its exhibition programme, Creative Maidstone has delivered more than 70 creative workshops for people of all ages and abilities. From weaving willow bird feeders and printmaking to family craft sessions, painting workshops and seasonal activities, hundreds of residents have discovered new skills, explored their creativity and connected with others.
Creative Maidstone has been developed around a programme of nurturing future creative talent. Young people have taken part in engaging workshops, while students have benefited from work experience placements, gaining practical insight into careers in the arts and cultural sector. A growing team of dedicated volunteers has also been welcomed to the Hub, helping support exhibitions, events and visitors while developing new skills and becoming part of Maidstone’s creative community.
Local artist and studio resident Ayse Akay added: “Creative Maidstone has given me far more than a place to exhibit my work, it has given me a community where I feel seen, encouraged and inspired. As an artist, having a supportive space to create, connect with other creatives and share my work with the public has been invaluable. It has helped me grow in confidence, opened new opportunities, and made me feel that I truly belong within Maidstone’s creative community. I am incredibly grateful to be part of such a welcoming and inspiring environment.”
Cllr Stephen Thompson, Maidstone Borough Council Cabinet Member for Healthier Stronger Communities, said: “I am so proud to see that in just one year, Creative Maidstone has become so much more than an arts venue. It has created opportunities for local artists, inspired thousands of visitors, supported young people and volunteers, and established itself as a vibrant cultural asset at the heart of the town. We are incredibly proud of everything that has been achieved and look forward to seeing Creative Maidstone continue to grow.”
As it enters its second year, Creative Maidstone continues to build on its success with an exciting programme of exhibitions, workshops and events, ensuring creativity remains at the heart of Maidstone while providing opportunities for artists, residents and visitors to come together through the arts.
Find out more
- To keep up to date with all that Creative Maidstone has to offer, sign up to the newsletter
- Join Creative Maidstone on Saturday 11 July for a special Birthday Bash, as they celebrate the creative milestone with a free family-friendly event for all ages
- To see upcoming events and opportunities at Creative Maidstone discover their website.
- Follow Creative Maidstone on social media for updates on Facebook and Instagram.