Carshalton Artists Open Studios (CAOS)

Carshalton Artists Open Studios Turns 10!

In 2026, Carshalton Artists Open Studios (CAOS) celebrates a remarkable milestone — its 10th anniversary! Over the past decade, CAOS has grown into one of South London’s most vibrant community arts events, bringing together artists, residents, and visitors in a shared celebration of creativity.

This year’s CAOS26 trail promises to be bigger and better than ever, featuring nearly 80 artists across 29 locations. Studios, homes, and galleries will once again open their doors across Carshalton village, stretching down through Carshalton Beeches to Oaks Park — all within easy walking distance.

One of the festival’s “golden artists,” Abel Kesteven, who has exhibited every year since CAOS began in 2017, reflects: “Art is a form of therapy — both in taking part and in experiencing it. Talking to artists who are passionate about what they do seems to have a positive effect on the local community.”

Celebrating a Decade of Community Creativity

Community lies at the heart of this year’s celebrations. Sutton Council Cultural Services will host a special 10th anniversary exhibition at Honeywood museum telling the story of CAOS. The show will feature selected works by the golden artists, alongside photographs and personal recollections that capture the joy, fun, and connection the event brings year after year.

Look out, too, for an exhibition of spoken word at Honeywood and Carole Baker’s wondrous woolly creations. A special art workshop with Pia Jaime will take place at Little Holland House on Saturday 28 June, 2–3.30pm, inspired by Frank Dickinson’s embossed copper plate panels. The house will be open to visitors from 11am–5pm.

Teen Creativity in Full Bloom

Teen CAOS — the youth arts programme launched in 2021 — returns for its fourth year at the Corner Gallery. Open to teenagers from across Sutton, the initiative offers a hands-on introduction to the professional art world, helping young participants understand how artists present, market, and sell their work.

Jackie Khan, owner of the Corner Gallery and a founding CAOS member, says: “Grassroots community arts like CAOS thrive because the engagement with friends, neighbours, and local businesses is incredible. Everyone wants the arts to flourish as much as we do.”

Open-Air Art and a Wider Celebration

Rounding off the festivities, a pop-up exhibition outside the Fox & Hounds pub on Carshalton High Street will present CAOS26 artists’ works in a six-week open-air display, offering art for everyone to enjoy day and night.

All of this forms part of the Carshalton Festival 2026, running Saturday 27 June to Sunday 5 July, a week packed with culture, connection, and celebration. The festival features a mix of free and ticketed events, including live music, drama, film, spoken word, and family-friendly activities — ensuring there’s something for everyone.