Upfest 2026

I was lucky enough to take part in Upfest in Bristol this year. The three and-a half hour train ride was easy, and suddenly I was right in the middle of a city I’d never visited before.

I painted in Tobacco Yard, which I think used to be a car park attached to a bar a great spot with loads of energy. There were around forty artists, each painting on A-boards set up back to back.

What I loved most was the public interaction and meeting other artists. My painting turned out okay, honestly, I worked so fast that id finished it by lunchtime. I think nerves affected my colour choices a bit, but people seemed to like it, and I’ve heard it might have sold! I decided to donate any proceeds to Upfest, as I really believe it’s a festival worth supporting.

It seems like one of those events where the big-name artists get invited back each year, so I’m just glad I got my turn. It was well organised, full of great people and creativity, and I really hope it keeps going.