After welcoming more than 3,500 visitors last year for its inaugural event, Falmouth's visual arts festival FORM is back for another taste this year.

FORM was conceived to celebrate the contemporary arts and crafts heritage and vibrant creative culture of the area, and to provide a new platform for people at all stages in their creative journey.

The highlight of FORM, taking place from September 29 – October 1 2023, is a free to visit three-day art fair at the Princess Pavilion with over 90 exhibitors showcasing their work.

In 2022 the event welcomed over 3,500 visitors who completely immersed themselves in the work of the Cornish painters, ceramicists, printmakers, jewellers, woodworkers, and sculptors who continue to represent Cornwall’s long-standing artistic tradition.

A festival atmosphere is assured as visitors can also indulge in delicious eats from local street food vendors and listen to music from local bands, such as Barry & The Crumpets, Mia Nicholls, Krelys and Brytevibes.

FORM also presents ticketed events and workshops across the town.

At The Poly, there will be a panel discussion in association with Street Draw 24 which is taking place the same weekend as FORM.

Profits from ticket sales for “Art, What is it Good For?” at 6pm on Saturday, September 30 will go to St Petrocs, supporting people facing homelessness in Cornwall.

There are special art film screenings at The Poly – The Nettle Dress (Friday, September 29, 8pm) and Squaring the Circle, The Story of Hipgnosis (Saturday, September 30, 8pm) – and a Pre-Raphaelite themed “Drink & Draw” with Swashbuckling Cornwall (Friday, September 29, 5.30pm).

Budding artists can also get involved with the children’s workshops being held at Princess Pavilion alongside the Art Fair.

A not-for-profit organisation, FORM is spearheaded by two local creatives - Vicki Glaister of Inspire Makers, which showcases the work of over 60 Cornish contemporary design-led artists and craftspeople, and Ann Morgan of Morgans, an art and design gallery that is a relatively new but well respected addition to Cornwall's contemporary art scene.

Already championing established and emerging Cornish talent through their own independent galleries in Falmouth, both are keen to inspire people at all stages in their creative journey.

FORM introduces artists and makers to new audiences, supports the growth of Falmouth’s dynamic artistic community, and offers opportunities to learn more about the visual arts, as well as encouraging the public to purchase directly from these small creative enterprises and continue this legacy within their own homes.

Vicki Glaister of Inspire Makers and Ann Morgan of Morgans say: “This county of Cornwall has long been a source of inspiration, refuge, and community. Both shaped by and simultaneously shaping the creatives who call it home.

"Artists and makers here are influenced by the rhythms of the landscape that surrounds us, inspired by both the raw dynamism and the gentle ebb and flow. We believe the art created in Cornwall is unparalleled and deserves to be celebrated by both familiar and new faces.”

Richard Wilcox, Executive Director of Falmouth BID says: “Falmouth’s Festival calendar gets bigger and better every year, and we are delighted to be able to support FORM Falmouth via Falmouth BID under our umbrella grouping of Falmouth Creates.

"With Falmouth University and countless creative businesses continually setting up across our vibrant community, FORM Falmouth is a brilliant example of grass roots ideation that has transformed with the support and nurturing of the Falmouth BID and the surrounding creative colleagues and community.

"Falmouth is a dynamic and creative destination, which punches well above its weight, attracting people from all around the world for its festivals and events which all drive locals and visitors alike into our excellent food and drink scene, bustling high street and community offering.”

FORM 2023 Art Fair Opening Hours Friday, September 29 2pm - 8pm Saturday, September 30 10am - 5pm Sunday, October 1 10am - 4pm.

The full programme of events is live on FORM’s website - www.formfalmouth.com