Art in the City 2025 is coming to Gloucester Docks

Gloucester Docks will be the setting for Art in the City 2025, a day-long celebration of creativity and community taking place on Saturday, August 2.

The event, organised by That White Room in partnership with Gloucester BID, will include a Plein Air painting competition where professional, amateur, and emerging artists will capture scenes from across the city.

Michael Ashcroft, a member of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters and one of this year’s judges, said: “Art in the City is a wonderful event with artists from all over painting the city.

“It truly is a spectacle not to be missed.”

The competition will run from 8.20am to 5pm, with artists invited to paint outdoors throughout the day.

A family art competition will also take place, with the first 100 families receiving free art packs.

Tushar Sabale, a judge and founder of London Plein Air Painters, said: “Art in every form empowers and unites people from different backgrounds.

“It encourages diversity and helps to weave cultures by bringing various communities together.

“Events like Art in the City act like the vocal cords of society.

“It gives people an opportunity to express themselves through art and I am truly excited to once again be part of this great initiative.”

The judging panel includes artists and community figures such as Sarah Darby, Abigail Waddell, Jane Clatworthy, Russell Haines, Julie Kent MBE, and Lisa Turner.

Points of interest on the day include cash prizes of up to £500, a handmade frame for each of the top three Plein Air winners, and a strong focus on accessibility and community engagement.

The event is supported by Gloucester BID, Period Frames (London) Limited, and supernova_celebrant.

Plein Air competition entry costs £15, with tickets available via Ticket Tailor.

Art in the City 2025 aims to foster pride in the city while offering opportunities for artistic expression.

Organisers are encouraging residents and visitors alike to come and enjoy a day of colour, creativity, and community spirit at the docks.