Newport will become a hub of creativity later this month as three of the town’s leading arts organisations come together for the return of The Big Draw Festival.
Independent Arts, Newport Minster and Quay Arts are collaborating to bring a week-long celebration of drawing to the Isle of Wight from Saturday 23rd to Saturday 30th August under the banner ‘Drawn to Newport’.
This year’s event is particularly special, marking the 25th anniversary of the global Big Draw Festival – the world’s largest celebration of drawing. Since its launch in 2000, the festival has inspired millions of people across more than 35 countries to pick up a pencil and reconnect with their creativity.
The 2025 theme, ‘Drawn Together’, highlights the power of drawing to build connections and strengthen communities. From sketching trails to doodle walls, drawing with sewing machines and even window-glass portraits, the Newport-based programme offers something for all ages and abilities.
Thanks to funding from the Newport Business Association, the creative events will be free to attend, bringing accessible and engaging artistic opportunities to the heart of the town.
As part of the festival, families and individuals can drop in to:
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Independent Arts for portrait drawing through glass
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Quay Arts for a free drop-in drawing studio
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Newport Minster for colouring and drawing stations
Matilda Barratt, Director of The Big Draw, said:
“For a quarter of a century, The Big Draw has championed drawing as a tool for communication, expression, and understanding – helping individuals and communities come together and connect.
Drawing is a universal language that transcends barriers, bringing us closer and enabling us to communicate in ways that words cannot. ‘Drawn Together’ serves as a reminder that the simple act of making a mark can build bridges, forge bonds, and create shared experiences.”
OPENING TIMES:
Independent Arts (48-49 High Street, Newport)
Open weekdays and Saturdays: 10:00 – 16:30 (Closed Bank Holiday Monday 25th)
Tel: 01983 822437 | Web: www.independentarts.org.uk
Quay Arts (15 Sea Street, Newport)
Open daily including Bank Holiday: 09:00 – 17:00
Tel: 01983 822490 | Web: www.quayarts.org.uk
Newport Minster (St Thomas’s Square, Newport)
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Saturday 23rd: 10:00 – 14:00
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Tuesday 26th & Wednesday 27th: 10:00 – 16:00
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Thursday 28th & Friday 29th: 10:00 – 13:00
Tel: 01983 821961 | Web: www.newportminster.org.uk
Programmes are available to collect from all 3 venues.
Whether you’re 5 or 95, this is your chance to pick up a pencil and get creative – because everyone can draw.
