RESEARCH 2026: WHAT YOU TOLD US
Celebrating what makes Pittenweem special - and looking ahead
Art, discovery and a warm welcome: our 2026 research shows that Pittenweem Arts Festival continues to offer an experience people value and want to share.
Thank you to the visitors and artists who contributed to this year’s surveys. Your feedback helps us understand what works well and where we can improve, while protecting the character that makes the Festival special.
2026 at a glance
- 93% of visitor respondents were likely or very likely to recommend the Festival.
- 59% took part in events or talks.
- 92% of artist respondents found exhibiting commercially viable.
- 100% of artist respondents positively rated the support they received
Our visitor research provided rich insights into who attends the festival, why they come, and what can be improved.
A Festival people return to, and discover for the first time
Four in five visitor respondents had attended before, reflecting the Festival’s loyal following. Nearly one in five was visiting for the first time, up from 16% in 2025.
For 56%, the Festival was the main or only reason for their visit to the area. Together, these findings show its continuing appeal as a destination for art and a memorable day out in the East Neuk.
The wider programme also remains an important part of the experience: 59% of respondents attended events or talks, slightly more than in 2025.
As one visitor put it: “The festival is excellent, well organised and well run.”
Photographs by Son of the Sea
Connecting artists and audiences
Meeting artists and discovering work in venues across the village are central to the Festival experience.
Among visitor respondents, 42% purchased art, with buyers reporting an average spend of £167. Purchasing was lower than in 2025, reminding us that artists are working in a challenging market.
Encouragingly, 92% of artist respondents found the Festival commercially viable, compared with 88% in 2025. Almost three quarters were very likely to return, while others said their return would depend on securing the right venue.
Listening and looking ahead
Alongside the positive feedback, visitors and artists identified opportunities to make the Festival experience better. These will help inform our planning for 2027:
- Finding your way: improving the map and signage to help visitors discover venues throughout the village.
- A comfortable visit: food and drink options, seating and toilet provision.
- Getting here and getting around: parking information and clearer guidance on alternatives to travelling by car.
- Keeping the programme fresh: a varied mix of art, events and activities, including opportunities for families to take part.
We will consider these priorities alongside the resources available and the practicalities of running a Festival within a working village.
Photograph by Son of the Sea
Thank you for helping shape the Festival
Pittenweem Arts Festival is made possible by its artists, residents, venue hosts, volunteers, visitors and supporters. Your involvement and feedback help us build on its strengths and plan thoughtfully for the future.
Continuing the Conversation: The Pittenweem Arts Festival is evolving, and your feedback plays a vital role in shaping its future. We are committed to inclusivity, sustainability, and providing a platform for artistic excellence. If you have ideas or suggestions for improvements, we’d love to hear from you—reach us at info@pittenweemartsfestival.co.uk
Photograph by Son of the Sea