Pittenweem Arts Festival

Arty Farty

We all like to think we know our Monet from our Matisse, but what about the modern Scottish art scene? The Pittenweem Arts Festival is a chance to swat up on local talent.

Pittenweem presently has about thirty resident artists in the village and more in the surrounding chain of small villages set along the lovely coastline, known as the East Neuk of Fife. It is a picture-perfect little place that is frequently depicted in paintings and The Pittenweem Arts Festival is a celebration of the area and its talented artists. Now in its 26th year, the festival features well established artists alongside complete newcomers.

A night not to be missed is the opening gala, where art enthusiasts gather en-masse to mark the opening of the festivities and enjoy a free ceilidh at the harbour. Later in the evening everyone watches the torchlight procession and for the bargain price of £2.50 you can join in with the procession (with your very own torch and everything!), which snakes down the narrow cobbled streets towards the beach.

The crowds then gather on the beach front, resting their torches in the sand while they watch a spectacular firework display from the hillside. For the next eight days people wander around the village, ducking in and out of exhibitor’s homes and learning why so many artists are inspired by East Neuk’s beauty.

And with Pittenweem just a half-hour bus ride from St Andrews, it is easily reachable for a day visit. Prepare to be inspired as this year there are over 100 artists exhibiting in the tiny village - taking residence in garages, studios, gardens and basically anywhere that has free wall-hanging space.

Pittenweem Arts Festival, 1-9 August, www.pittenweemartsfestival.com (full programme available on website).

For information on buses from St Andrews to Pittenweem visit www.stagecoachbus.com

More: Features, Festivals, Pittenweem Arts Festival, Scottish Art, Stage Coach Buses

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