Art in Action is a 3-day arts & crafts festival where top artists and craftspeople from many different disciplines are invited to set up studio and demonstrate their work and skills live.

Visitors come to see how it’s done and are inspired; they are welcome to meet the artists informally and ask questions about their work and techniques.

Most of the art and craftwork on show is available for sale direct from the artists.

A wide range of practical classes is available each day, with adults and children catered for separately. Classes are designed to encourage the novice and each participant learns how to make a finished piece of art or craft for taking home.

The liberal arts are represented through a programme of music, drama, dance, story telling and lectures.

The event is renowned among visitors and artists alike not only for the breadth and quality of the art on show, but also for its wonderful organisation, relaxed family atmosphere and beautiful setting around Townley Hall.

Art in Action has grown greatly in scale, quality and variety from its small beginnings in 1994. In that time over 85,000 visitors have spent a magical day watching hundreds of leading artists and craftspeople actively creating their work. More than 8,000 visitors are expected this year.

Art in Action is a not-for-profit event which honours the role of the artist in society. It is organised and staffed entirely on a voluntary basis and is held every year over the 3 days of the June Holiday Weekend.