Art enthusiasts and savvy collectors in Merseyside have a major date to circle in their new year diaries. Southport Contemporary Arts (SCA) is preparing to launch its popular annual event, the 2026 Under The Bed Sale, at the ArtHouse on Eastbank Street.
Bag a Bargain on Unique Artworks
The much-anticipated sale offers a rare chance for the public to purchase original pieces at significantly reduced prices. The event runs from Wednesday, January 7, to Sunday, December 18, 2026. It features a diverse range of arts and crafts that established and emerging SCA artists have retrieved from storage.
These are typically early works or pieces they no longer wish to keep, which they would not normally exhibit. Visitors can expect to find everything from hand-thrown ceramics and original paintings to decorative embroideries and intricate jewellery. Every item is a one-off, making it a prime opportunity for those looking to boost their collection with unique finds after the Boxing Day sales.
Supporting Local Artists and Clearing Space
Norrie Beswick-Calvert, co-Director of SCA, explained the thinking behind the sale. "Our exhibiting artists never charge the full worth of their beautifully handcrafted and unique pieces," Beswick-Calvert said. "It seems a shame to then reduce them further, but they are constantly creating new work and simply run out of storage space."
The Under The Bed Sale therefore serves a dual purpose. It allows artists to clear room for new creations while giving the community a chance to bag an exceptional bargain and directly support the local creative economy. "It's a win-win," added Beswick-Calvert, "supporting your local independent gallery and the talented makers in our area."
A Thriving Creative Community
The Southport Contemporary Arts community was founded in 2009 with a mission to recognise, promote, and support the wealth of artistic talent in the town. It has grown into a vibrant collective representing a wide array of disciplines.
The current membership ambitiously includes:
- Painters and textile artists
- Filmmakers and photographers
- Printmakers and sculptors
- Jewellers, musicians, and poets
- Performance-based artists
Through year-round exhibitions like this sale, SCA continues to champion the diversity and vitality of the local art scene, providing a crucial platform for creatives from all backgrounds.
The Under The Bed Sale takes place from January 7 to December 18, 2026, at ArtHouse, 65 Eastbank Street, Southport, PR8 1EJ. Opening hours are Tuesday to Friday, 10am to 3pm, and Saturday, 11am to 4pm. With every piece being a unique find, the advice from organisers is clear: don't hesitate, as once these affordable artworks are gone, they're gone for good.
