Purbeck Art Weeks (PAW) was started in 2001 by a small group of visual artists who wanted to open their Studios to the public. In 2012 a performing arts dimension was added to complement the visual arts, and PAW became a fully rounded festival embracing all the arts.

From vibrant exhibitions to open studios and world class performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. All exhibitions and open studios are free to visit, concerts are ticketed and available to book. Doors open for a fortnight during the last week of May and the first week of June.

Alongside the visual arts we have an exciting line-up of concerts for you to enjoy in the evenings. We start with a celebration of summertime with a brass flourish from Gawain Glenton and his ensemble, In Echo, followed by I Fagiolini singing works by Benevoli and Monteverdi. Next comes the Fieri Consort with ‘Dawn Chorus’ followed by award-winning mezzo-soprano Helen Charlston and lutenist Toby Carr who bring a selection of Dowland’s songs and more, as well as two world premieres. We close with The Gesualdo Six vocal ensemble, back by popular demand.