Under the Bed Sale at Cupola Gallery – why I love it (and why I’m taking part again)

January can feel a bit grey, so I always love the fact that the year starts with something as lively and generous as Cupola Gallery’s Under the Bed Sale in Sheffield. It’s one of those events I look forward to every year – both as an artist and as someone who just enjoys having a good rummage through lots of interesting artwork. And this year is their 30th anniversary!

If you’ve never been before, the idea is simple: artists bring along work that’s been tucked away in studios, cupboards, portfolios… and yes, sometimes literally under the bed. Older pieces, experiments, studies, demos, things that don’t quite fit elsewhere but still deserve to be seen. Everything is original, everything is affordable, and there’s always a huge variety.

This year’s dates

The Under the Bed Sale 2026 runs from Saturday 10th January to Sunday 1st February at Cupola Contemporary Art Gallery, Sheffield.

It’s on long enough that you can pop in more than once – which is dangerous, because the work changes and things sell fast!

What I’m bringing this year

This year I’m submitting 45 paintings, which feels like a lot when they’re stacked up in the studio 😄. The selection is a real mix:

• older stock

• pieces that haven’t been out for a while

• and quite a few demonstration paintings from my art workshops

If you’ve ever been to one of my workshops, you’ll probably recognise the sort of pieces I mean – pre-demo paintings or the piece I create with you in the workshop.

Prices (the good bit)

One of the best things about the Under the Bed Sale is the pricing. My work in the show will range from £9.99 to £48.40, which makes it a lovely opportunity if you:

• want an original painting without committing to a big spend

• fancy a small piece for a quiet corner

• or would like to own something that shows the working side of my practice

It’s also a great way to try living with original art if you’ve never bought any before.

Why it’s worth a visit

The gallery during the Under the Bed Sale is gloriously packed – walls full, tables covered, and a real sense of discovery. It’s informal, friendly, and very easy to lose track of time while you browse. I always say it’s less like a traditional exhibition and more like an art treasure hunt.

If you’re local to Sheffield, I’d really recommend popping in.  And if you spot one of my paintings and it speaks to you, even better – it’ll be lovely to know it’s escaped from under the bed and found a new home.

For more information you can go to https://www.cupolagallery.com/events/2025/1/11/under-the-bed-sale-5929r

 Photos curtesy of Cupola Art Gallery, Sheffield.