Painting Padiham 2026 Brings Colour, Creativity and Community Together

Padiham was transformed into an open-air art studio as Painting Padiham 2026 welcomed 43 artists to capture the town’s character, heritage and landscapes in a day-long celebration of creativity.

Artists spent the day painting at locations across Padiham, from the historic streets and riverside to the beautiful grounds of Gawthorpe Hall. Working in a variety of styles and mediums, each artist produced an original piece inspired by the town, with every canvas and sheet officially stamped at the start of the day before painting began.

Visitors enjoyed following the Artists’ Trail, watching paintings develop throughout the day and speaking with artists about their work and inspiration. Alongside the live painting competition, there was plenty to entertain families, including free craft activities, caricature artists and a complimentary vintage bus service transporting visitors between Padiham town centre and Gawthorpe Hall.

At the end of the day, all completed artworks were brought together in the Padiham Town Hall Ballroom, where they were displayed in a special exhibition. The exhibition gave visitors the opportunity to view all 43 paintings together, appreciate the wide variety of artistic styles and celebrate the incredible talent on show before the prize-giving ceremony took place.

Following careful deliberation by the judging panel, the winners were announced to an enthusiastic audience of artists, family members, supporters and visitors. The awards recognised outstanding artistic achievement while celebrating the creativity and dedication shown by everyone who took part.

Painting Padiham 2026 once again demonstrated the growing popularity of the event, attracting artists from across the region and encouraging hundreds of people to explore the town throughout the day. The event also provided a welcome boost for local businesses, cafés and attractions as visitors discovered everything Padiham has to offer.

The organisers would like to thank the 43 participating artists, volunteers, sponsors, local businesses, Gawthorpe Hall, and everyone who attended for helping make Painting Padiham 2026 such a memorable and successful community event. The enthusiasm and support shown throughout the day highlighted the important role that art continues to play in bringing people together and celebrating the unique character of Padiham.