art in the arcade
A curated one-day art fair celebrating independent artists in Boscombe's beautiful Royal Arcade.
Royal Arcade, Boscombe | Saturday 21 November 2026 | Curated by Millie Lake
Bringing art into unexpected spaces
Art in the Arcade is a brand new curated art fair that brings together independent artists and art lovers in one of Boscombe's most beautiful historic spaces.
Created by Curated by Millie, the event celebrates original artwork, creative community and the joy of buying directly from artists.
Some of the most memorable creative experiences happen outside traditional gallery walls, so rather than asking people to visit a gallery, Art in the Arcade invites visitors to discover contemporary art somewhere unexpected — surrounded by independent shops, local businesses and the distinctive character of the Royal Arcade.
Whether you're an artist looking to connect with new audiences or a visitor hoping to discover your next favourite piece, Art in the Arcade is designed to celebrate creativity, champion independent artists and make buying original art a more personal and enjoyable experience.
why apply?
connect with new audiences
Art in the Arcade has been created to introduce original artwork to people who may not usually visit galleries. Whether they're first-time buyers, local residents or visitors exploring Boscombe, you'll have the opportunity to meet people who are genuinely curious about discovering independent artists.
Sell your work in a new setting
Exhibit and sell your work in the beautiful surroundings of Boscombe's Royal Arcade. Its historic architecture and thriving community of independent businesses create a memorable setting for both artists and visitors.
be part of a carefully curated event
Rather than a first-come, first-served market, Art in the Arcade is a curated event. I'm selecting a balanced mix of artists and artistic disciplines to create an inspiring experience for visitors and a supportive environment for exhibitors.
Share your creative process
Artists will have the opportunity to take part in optional live demonstrations throughout the day, giving visitors a chance to see how artwork is made and creating meaningful conversations around your practice.
be part of something from the beginning
Art in the Arcade is launching its very first edition this November. My ambition is to grow it into a recurring event that celebrates independent artists and creativity in alternative spaces, and I'd love for you to help shape that journey.
Art in the Arcade has been designed artists working across a range of disciplines who want to share their work directly with the public and be part of a welcoming, creative event.
We're looking for artists creating original work in areas including:
Painting
Illustration
Printmaking
Photography
Ceramics
Sculpture
Mixed media
Textiles and other contemporary craft practices
is Art in the Arcade right for you?
Whether you are an emerging artist taking part in your first art fair or an established creative looking to connect with new audiences, we welcome applications from artists at all stages of their practice.
We are particularly interested in artists who are passionate about sharing the stories behind their work, engaging with visitors and contributing to the atmosphere of the day.
Applications will be curated to create a diverse and inspiring mix of artists, mediums and price points, ensuring visitors have the opportunity to discover a wide range of creative practices.
You bring:
Table and display equipment
Card reader/payment method
Packaging materials so visitors can take home their new purchases safely
what’s included?
We provide:
Curated pitch space within the Royal Arcade for the duration of the event
Event promotion through Curated by Millie and Royal Arcade channels
Event management in the lead up to and day of the event
Opportunity to participate in the creative programme through optional live demonstrations
Key information
Further information will be shared with selected artists nearer to the event date.
applications close
5pm, Saturday 17 October
Artists notified by
Sunday 25th October
Pitch fee
£35 for a 6 foot x 3 foot pitch
Your questions, answered
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Yes. Applications will be reviewed to create a considered mix of artists, disciplines, styles and price points that creates an engaging experience for visitors.
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No. Applications are welcomed from both emerging and established artists. Whether this is your first event or you're an experienced exhibitor, we're interested in hearing about your work and practice.
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Not at all. Art in the Arcade is rooted in the creative community of Dorset, so we particularly want to hear from artists based locally. However, artists from outside Dorset are very welcome to apply and will be considered as part of the selection process.
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Art in the Arcade welcomes original artwork, limited edition prints, photography, ceramics, sculpture and other contemporary creative practices.
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Yes. We encourage artists to offer a range of work and price points to make art accessible to a wider audience.
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Shared pitches may be considered where artists have a strong creative connection or complementary practices. Please mention this in your application.
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Artists are responsible for providing their own table, chair, display equipment, payment system and packaging materials.
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No, but you are welcome to design your pitch around freestanding artist displays.
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Yes. Every artist is required to have their own public liability insurance.
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Yes. Live demonstrations are optional but encouraged as part of the creative programme. If you'd like to take part, please include details in your application.
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Yes. Selected artists will be featured across Curated by Millie's platforms in the lead-up to the event, with further promotional opportunities shared with successful applicants.