What’s On?
MEMBER EVENT - Royal Society Show at Patchings Gallery
ROAR Member Chris Slater will be showing work at the Royal Society Art Show at Patchings Gallery.
Chris will be doing a demo on 6th July.
You can also join in for a day of painting on the 27th July - painters of all skills levels are invited to paint 'en plein air'.
The Paint out day is a great opportunity to meet like-minded people, test your outdoor painting skills and practice techniques surrounded by beautiful nature. It is free to paint in the grounds on the Paint Out day and there is no need to book.
You'll need to bring your own materials, or materials are also available to purchase in Patchings Art Shop.
EXHIBITION - Root Canal by Chris Bilton at Forge Island
Location: Forge Island, Rotherham
Details: An intriguing sculpture exhibition by Chris Bilton, featuring characters built from found objects along the South Yorkshire canal towpaths. Thought-provoking, playful, and eerie in equal measure.
WORKSHOP - Beginner Pottery Sessions
Dates: Monday 11th & 18th August 2025
Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Location: ClaySpace @ ROAR, Westgate Studios
Details: A two-part introduction to working with clay led by artist Matt Butt. Learn hand-building techniques, wheel basics, decoration, glazing, and studio etiquette.
Spaces are limited – booking is essential. FREE.
Email to book: matt@rotherhamroar.org
ART SESSION - Drop-In Art Session
Join us on Tuesday mornings for a relaxed, open studio session. Bring along any creative project you’d like to work on — whether it’s watercolour, drawing, or something entirely different — and enjoy making alongside a friendly, like-minded group.
All are welcome, whatever your experience level!
TRIP - Plein Air at Padley Gorge
Meet at ROAR at 9:30am or Longshaw Estate at 10:30am
Location: Padley Gorge, Derbyshire
Details: Join us for a morning of outdoor creativity in the stunning moorlands of Padley Gorge. Bring your art supplies, good shoes, and a packed lunch.
RSVP required if you need a lift from ROAR.
📩 Email: team@rotherhamroar.org
SKILLSHARE - Plein Air 2025 - Session 7
Join us for our 8 Week Skillshare Summer Special: Plein Air 2025.
This summer, we're thrilled to bring back our popular Plein Air Skillshare series! These sessions offer artists of all levels the chance to explore the art of painting outdoors—capturing the essence of nature, urban landscapes, and the ever-changing light. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, join us to develop your skills, share techniques, and connect with a community of creatives.
Each Thursday we will focus on a new location or technique (full details of each session coming soon).
We'll be venturing out into various locations around Rotherham, meeting at festivals and flower farms alike, turning the outdoors into our studio.
WORKSHOP - Beginner Pottery Sessions
Dates: Monday 11th & 18th August 2025
Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
Location: ClaySpace @ ROAR, Westgate Studios
Details: A two-part introduction to working with clay led by artist Matt Butt. Learn hand-building techniques, wheel basics, decoration, glazing, and studio etiquette.
Spaces are limited – booking is essential. FREE.
Email to book: matt@rotherhamroar.org
SKILLSHARE - Plein Air 2025 - Session 8
Join us for our 8 Week Skillshare Summer Special: Plein Air 2025.
This summer, we're thrilled to bring back our popular Plein Air Skillshare series! These sessions offer artists of all levels the chance to explore the art of painting outdoors—capturing the essence of nature, urban landscapes, and the ever-changing light. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, join us to develop your skills, share techniques, and connect with a community of creatives.
Each Thursday we will focus on a new location or technique (full details of each session coming soon).
We'll be venturing out into various locations around Rotherham, meeting at festivals and flower farms alike, turning the outdoors into our studio.
WORKSHOP - ART AS EXPANDED THINKING - Session #2
You are invited to join us for ART AS EXPANDED THINKING a new discussion group open to ROAR members:
This group offers an informal and engaging space to explore how we talk about our work and understand what we do — examining the connections between theory and practice. Across several sessions, we’ll begin to engage with key concepts and models, as well as influential theorists of relevance to contemporary arts practice. The group is ideal for anyone who feels a bit uncertain about discussing their work, but equally open to those who simply enjoy exchanging ideas.
The sessions are led by Mark Fell, a Rotherham-based artist, curator, and writer. Fell’s practice combines interests in creative processes, radical philosophy, and the impact of emergent technologies. Mark regularly presents his work at leading galleries, museums and academic institutions around the world.
Date: Wednesday the 27th of August
Time: 6pm to 9pm.
Location: ROAR art space, Hope Centre, Grove Road, Rotherham town centre.
Cost: free of charge
Please book your place here.
MAKING MAKING VISIBLE - Rotherham Show with ROAR Plein Air Painters - 5th & 6th September
We’re taking our mission of #MakingMakingVisible to festivals in the area this summer and we want you to join us!
MEMBER EVENT - RSMA Annual Exhibition
ROAR Member Chris Slater will be exhibiting at the RSMA Annual Exhibition at Mall Galleries, London from 17th - 27th September.
“The Royal Society of Marine Artists is the focal point for much of Britain's finest contemporary marine art, and many of the country's leading marine artists are elected Members of the Society.
This country is an island nation with a proud maritime heritage. The coastline of Britain and its principal islands measures some 19,400 miles, presenting a wide variety of often spectacular scenery.
The sea is part of who we are as a nation. It is this heritage and this environment that we aim to celebrate.
Whilst much of our work is representational in the broadest sense, our styles, choice of subject matter and painting medium vary enormously. Some of our Members specialise in thoroughly researched historical subjects, others capture the thrill of modern yacht racing; some enjoy muddy creeks and quiet harbours, others find beauty in super-tankers and cargo vessels; some find inspiration on the deep sea, others explore what's under the sea.
But no matter what we paint, or in what style, no matter whether we paint en plein-air or in the studio, the sea is always our main source of inspiration.”
TRIP - London
SAVE THE DATE - We're heading to the capital for two days of inspiration and creativity! Open to anyone who’d like to join us for gallery visits and cultural exploration. (Join us for just one or both days).
Full itinerary coming soon.
SKILLSHARE - Plein Air 2025 - Session 6
Join us for our 8 Week Skillshare Summer Special: Plein Air 2025.
This summer, we're thrilled to bring back our popular Plein Air Skillshare series! These sessions offer artists of all levels the chance to explore the art of painting outdoors—capturing the essence of nature, urban landscapes, and the ever-changing light. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, join us to develop your skills, share techniques, and connect with a community of creatives.
Each Thursday we will focus on a new location or technique (full details of each session coming soon).
We'll be venturing out into various locations around Rotherham, meeting at festivals and flower farms alike, turning the outdoors into our studio.
Skillshare: Plein Air 2025 - Session 5
Join us for our 8 Week Skillshare Summer Special: Plein Air 2025.
This summer, we're thrilled to bring back our popular Plein Air Skillshare series! These sessions offer artists of all levels the chance to explore the art of painting outdoors—capturing the essence of nature, urban landscapes, and the ever-changing light. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, join us to develop your skills, share techniques, and connect with a community of creatives.
Each Thursday we will focus on a new location or technique (full details of each session coming soon).
We'll be venturing out into various locations around Rotherham, meeting at festivals and flower farms alike, turning the outdoors into our studio.
ART AS EXPANDED THINKING - Session #1
You are invited to join us for ART AS EXPANDED THINKING a new discussion group open to ROAR members:
This group offers an informal and engaging space to explore how we talk about our work and understand what we do — examining the connections between theory and practice. Across several sessions, we’ll begin to engage with key concepts and models, as well as influential theorists of relevance to contemporary arts practice. The group is ideal for anyone who feels a bit uncertain about discussing their work, but equally open to those who simply enjoy exchanging ideas.
The sessions are led by Mark Fell, a Rotherham-based artist, curator, and writer. Fell’s practice combines interests in creative processes, radical philosophy, and the impact of emergent technologies. Mark regularly presents his work at leading galleries, museums and academic institutions around the world.
Date: Wednesday the 30th of July
Time: 6pm to 9pm.
Location: ROAR art space, Hope Centre, Grove Road, Rotherham town centre.
Cost: free of charge
Please book your place here.
Pottery Drop-In Session - 28th July
Our pottery drop in sessions are perfect for new and experienced potters alike. Come and test new ideas, perfect your techniques or work on an ongoing project, all in a supportive and friendly environment. We have tools, clay and kiln and drying space.
Come As You Really Are
You are invited to Barnsley Art Society's gallery visit/sketch trip to the Civic Theatre Gallery, Barnsley on Friday 25th July. This exhibition is simply not to be missed, 'Come As You Really Are ' curated by Hetain Patel. It focuses on local people's passions and hobbies. Meet at the front entrance on Eldon Street at 9.50am. And Elizabeth the curator will give you a short tour. Then you free to browse and sketch (not obligatory!) Coffee and chat afterwards.
Barnsely Civic Thearte, Eldon St, Barnsley S70 2JL
Skillshare: Plein Air 2025 - Session 4
Join us for our 8 Week Skillshare Summer Special: Plein Air 2025.
This summer, we're thrilled to bring back our popular Plein Air Skillshare series! These sessions offer artists of all levels the chance to explore the art of painting outdoors—capturing the essence of nature, urban landscapes, and the ever-changing light. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, join us to develop your skills, share techniques, and connect with a community of creatives.
Each Thursday we will focus on a new location or technique (full details of each session coming soon).
We'll be venturing out into various locations around Rotherham, meeting at festivals and flower farms alike, turning the outdoors into our studio.
ROAR Member Trip - Side Farm Flowers Cut Flower Farm
ROAR Member Trip - Side Farm Flowers Cut Flower Farm
Join us for a creative and inspirational trip to member Liz Baxters Flower Farm in Thurcroft. As part of our ongoing Plein Air skillshares thoroughout July and August, we’re getting out and about and finding sonderful things to draw. Meet at ROAR Westgate at 9.45am or at Liz’s Flower Farm at 10.15/10.30am. Bring your lunch, your sketching stuff and your camera and we’ll enjoy a day out amongst the flora and fauna.
Thursday 24th July.
Please let us know if you need a lift so we can make plans to accommodate you.
Maximum of 30 people for this trip, so please RSVP
Email team@rotherhamroar.org
Location: Side Farm*, Laughton Common Road, Thurcroft, Rotherham, South Yorkshire, S66 9BN
*turn off Laughton Common Road at the sign for Lake View Fishing and proceed down the lane. Take the first right, where you will see a set of double wooden gates and a white house. Parking is available on the driveway inside the gates.
To maximise space, Liz kindly asks that vehicles be parked diagonally, side by side, on the left-hand side of the drive, up to the wall. This should allow sufficient room for all attendees.
Pottery Drop-In Session - 21st July
Our pottery drop in sessions are perfect for new and experienced potters alike. Come and test new ideas, perfect your techniques or work on an ongoing project, all in a supportive and friendly environment. We have tools, clay and kiln and drying space.
Skillshare: Plein Air 2025 - Session 3
Join us for our 8 Week Skillshare Summer Special: Plein Air 2025.
This summer, we're thrilled to bring back our popular Plein Air Skillshare series! These sessions offer artists of all levels the chance to explore the art of painting outdoors—capturing the essence of nature, urban landscapes, and the ever-changing light. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, join us to develop your skills, share techniques, and connect with a community of creatives.
Each Thursday we will focus on a new location or technique (full details of each session coming soon).
We'll be venturing out into various locations around Rotherham, meeting at festivals and flower farms alike, turning the outdoors into our studio.
Skillshare: Plein Air 2025 - Session 2
Join us for our 8 Week Skillshare Summer Special: Plein Air 2025.
This summer, we're thrilled to bring back our popular Plein Air Skillshare series! These sessions offer artists of all levels the chance to explore the art of painting outdoors—capturing the essence of nature, urban landscapes, and the ever-changing light. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, join us to develop your skills, share techniques, and connect with a community of creatives.
Each Thursday we will focus on a new location or technique (full details of each session coming soon).
We'll be venturing out into various locations around Rotherham, meeting at festivals and flower farms alike, turning the outdoors into our studio.
Pottery Drop-In Session - 14th July
Our pottery drop in sessions are perfect for new and experienced potters alike. Come and test new ideas, perfect your techniques or work on an ongoing project, all in a supportive and friendly environment. We have tools, clay and kiln and drying space.
Skillshare: Plein Air 2025 - Session 1
Join us for our 8 Week Skillshare Summer Special: Plein Air 2025.
This summer, we're thrilled to bring back our popular Plein Air Skillshare series! These sessions offer artists of all levels the chance to explore the art of painting outdoors—capturing the essence of nature, urban landscapes, and the ever-changing light. Whether you're a seasoned painter or just starting out, join us to develop your skills, share techniques, and connect with a community of creatives.
Each Thursday we will focus on a new location or technique (full details of each session coming soon).
We'll be venturing out into various locations around Rotherham, meeting at festivals and flower farms alike, turning the outdoors into our studio.
EXHIBITION - Annual Member Show
NEW SPACE. NEW SHOW.
We’re so excited to launch our brand-new Garage Gallery at The Hope Centre.
We’re kicking things off with a celebration of who we are with a showcase of work by ROAR Members, full of creativity, passion, and talent.
Let’s imagine what this new space could be… and start dreaming big together.
Open Mondays & Tuesdays, 10am - 3pm
📍 ROAR Studios, Grove Road, Rotherham
Pottery Drop-In Session - 7th July
Our pottery drop in sessions are perfect for new and experienced potters alike. Come and test new ideas, perfect your techniques or work on an ongoing project, all in a supportive and friendly environment. We have tools, clay and kiln and drying space.
Ferham Festival with ROAR Plein Air Painters - 5th July
We’re taking our mission of #MakingMakingVisible to festivals in the area this summer and we want you to join us!
Pottery Drop-In Session - 30th June
Our pottery drop in sessions are perfect for new and experienced potters alike. Come and test new ideas, perfect your techniques or work on an ongoing project, all in a supportive and friendly environment. We have tools, clay and kiln and drying space.
Summer Social & AGM
Join us for our first ever summer get-together – a relaxed evening to celebrate our members and the creative community we’re building together. We love our Festive Fuddle so much, we thought we should definitely create an excuse for a sunny version!
We'll begin with our AGM, sharing updates and plans for the future
We'll then welcome renowned art critic, writer and broadcaster Matthew Collings for a special talk exclusively for our members.
Then it's time to unwind – enjoy drinks, delicious food, and great company in good summer spirit!
Where: ROAR Studios, The Hope Centre, Grove Road, Rotherham
When: From 6:30pm, Weds 25th June
This event is free for all ROAR members – we’d love to see you there!
RSVP to team@rotherhamroar.org
Pottery Drop-In Session - 23rd June
Our pottery drop in sessions are perfect for new and experienced potters alike. Come and test new ideas, perfect your techniques or work on an ongoing project, all in a supportive and friendly environment. We have tools, clay and kiln and drying space.
Figure Drawing - Tuesday, 17th June
Figure Drawing: Romantic Pose with Model
Hosted by: Barnsley and District Art Society
Date: Tuesday, 17th June
Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Emmanuel Church, S75 1DT
Cost: £7 (Visitors very welcome)
What to Bring: Please bring your own art materials
A relaxed evening of figure drawing with a live model in a romantic pose — perfect for artists of all levels looking to practise in a supportive group setting.
Pottery Drop-In Session - 16th June
Our pottery drop in sessions are perfect for new and experienced potters alike. Come and test new ideas, perfect your techniques or work on an ongoing project, all in a supportive and friendly environment. We have tools, clay and kiln and drying space.
Skillshare: Sustainable Fashion with Sandra Ward (Session 2)
Skillshare: Mending & Making – Sustainable Fashion
Date & Time: Thursday 5th & Thursday 12th June , 6-8pm
Location: Theatre Space, ROAR Artspace, Westgate Chambers, Westgate, Rotherham, S60 1AN
Fast fashion is one of the planet’s biggest polluters—40% of new clothing goes straight to landfill, and denim production alone has devastated ecosystems like the Aral Sea. Cheap clothes often come at a high human and environmental cost.
Join us for a practical, hands-on workshop focused on giving your clothes a second life. With Sandras insight into clothes production and support from fellow makers, we’ll cover things like:
Fixing broken zips
Creative patching techniques
Letting out waistbands
General mending skills
Bring items you love but can’t wear—if we can’t fix them on the spot, we’ll try and show you how.
Bring your own sewing machines if possible.
Let’s learn how to repair, rewear, and rethink the way we value clothing.
Pottery Drop-In Session - 9th June
Our pottery drop in sessions are perfect for new and experienced potters alike. Come and test new ideas, perfect your techniques or work on an ongoing project, all in a supportive and friendly environment. We have tools, clay and kiln and drying space.
Skillshare: Sustainable Fashion with Sandra Ward (Session 1)
Skillshare: Mending & Making – Sustainable Fashion
Date & Time: Thursday 5th & Thursday 12th June , 6-8pm
Location: Theatre Space, ROAR Artspace, Westgate Chambers, Westgate, Rotherham, S60 1AN
Fast fashion is one of the planet’s biggest polluters—40% of new clothing goes straight to landfill, and denim production alone has devastated ecosystems like the Aral Sea. Cheap clothes often come at a high human and environmental cost.
Join us for a practical, hands-on workshop focused on giving your clothes a second life. With Sandras insight into clothes production and support from fellow makers, we’ll cover things like:
Fixing broken zips
Creative patching techniques
Letting out waistbands
General mending skills
Bring items you love but can’t wear—if we can’t fix them on the spot, we’ll try and show you how.
Bring your own sewing machines if possible.
Let’s learn how to repair, rewear, and rethink the way we value clothing.