Artist FAQ & Info | Upfest

Artist FAQ & Info

We have tried to answer all your questions here, please read them first. 

Still got a question? email artists@upfest.co.uk

 

What's new for 2024

Upfest is back with a new format and a new name for 2024, welcome to UPFEST PRESENTS

We're going to be running a 17 day cultural programme across BS3 that has the vibe of both Upfest in the early years and something totally new and different for us.

 

From Friday 17th May to Sunday 2nd June, we'll have artists painting across familiar and new walls in the area; a combination of workshops, talks, panel discussions and mini-events in collaboration with local venues, for kids, adults, and artists; pop-up art shows in the gallery and beyond; walking tours (with a new map to tie in); plus art battles, live small board painting and music.

 

How do I register to paint at the festival?

 Registration via this website will open on 16th February until 25th February 2024

 

When can I paint?

 All painting will take place between the 17th May- 2nd June

 

Where will UPFEST PRESENTS take place?

UPFEST PRESENTS will take place In Bedminster which is situated in South Bristol (about a 15-minute walk from the city centre).

 

How big are the painting spaces?

The space allocated will be based on what you request during registration, we have spaces from 1.2m x 1.2m through to full buildings.

 

Pairs & Crews

If you are interested collaborating with other artists then please ensure all participants have registered then email artists@upfest.co.uk with the name of each person so we can match the registrations

  

What will I be painting on?

Once you have been allocated a space we will send you information with the exact size, location, image and surface.

 

How much does it cost?

Upfest is free! It is free to register and if you're accepted to paint, it's still free! It is also free for visitors to attend the festival.

 

Does Upfest pay for my materials?

Yes for UPFEST PRESENTS, all materials will be covered along with access equipment where required

 

Does Upfest pay for my travel / accommodation?

We don’t pay travel, but we will provide accommodation for visiting artists for the period whilst you are painting (1- 5 days depending on wall size)

  

Can I change the size of space I requested?

Yes, as long as we have the space available, email artists@upfest.co.uk with your artist name and size you would like to paint and we will see what we can do.

 

I can no longer attend what do I do?

Please email artists@upfest.co.uk, with your artist name, this is really important to allow us to reallocate the space to one of the artists on our reserve list.

 

How do I get to Bedminster

The nearest mainline train station is Bristol Temple Meads this is a 35 min walk to the gallery. Local line stations are Bedminster and Parson Street these are a 15 min walk

The nearest coach station is Bristol central station this is a 35 min walk to the gallery,

From Bristol city centre there is a bus service direct to North Street this is the number 24

Car Share, there are several car share websites available here are a few options.

                 (gocarshare.com, blablacar.co.uk, liftshare.com)

Other options are Bike, or Tier e-scooter and e-bikes

Please note if travelling by car Bristol has a ULEZ system in place along with resident parking schemes.

 

What’s the closest airport to Bedminster?

Bristol International airport 6.5 miles (airport bus or taxi’s available for transfer to Bedminster)

 

When shall I arrive?

Once you have been accepted, we will be in touch to discuss painting times within the 17 day period.

  

Where do I go on the first day?

You will need to arrive at the Upfest gallery, 198 North Street, Bristol. BS31JF, unless otherwise agreed via email.

 

Can I get my profile added to the Upfest website and festival brochure?

Yes, We will need a square profile image from you, it needs to be 600 x 600 pixels at 300dpi Usually it would be a picture of your street work or studio work. The image will be used to promote you both online and in the festival magazine, so find a good image.


Whilst some of you have provided us with a short profile already, please could everyone resubmit a profile up to 100 words (along with your profile image), describing you, your work and why you do it, Email to artists@upfest.co.uk

 

 How do I order my materials? 

We will be in touch with how to order materials once your space has been allocated

 

Where do I collect my paint?

All paint orders will be ready for collection when you arrive at the Upfest gallery

 

Can I sell artwork?

Yes, there will be a number of exhibitions throughout the programme. Details will be available in due course.