Magic and Mastery at Oxmoor Farm: How The Art Exhibitionists Redefined the Summer Art Fair in August 2025
If you think an art fair is simply a collection of paintings hanging quietly on walls, then you clearly haven't experienced an event hosted by The Art Exhibitionists.
Over the last August weekend in 2025, the beautiful Oxmoor Farm in Great Hampden was transformed into a vibrant celebration of art, creativity, music and community. True to their motto, "Unique Art in Unique Places", The Art Exhibitionists once again demonstrated why their affordable art events have developed such a loyal following across Buckinghamshire and beyond.
A Preview Evening to Remember
The festivities began on Thursday 28 August with a lively preview evening that rivalled the atmosphere of many London gallery openings. More than 200 guests gathered beneath the warm glow of barn lights, enjoying wood-fired pizza, excellent wine and the captivating performance of the talented young singer and guitarist Anoushka.
As music drifted through the courtyard, visitors explored an extraordinary collection of original artwork displayed across three beautifully converted barns, the terrace and surrounding outdoor spaces. Paintings, ceramics, sculpture and handcrafted pieces combined to create a rich and immersive visual experience that immediately set the tone for the weekend ahead.
More Than an Art Fair
What has always set The Art Exhibitionists apart is their belief that visitors should not simply view art—they should experience it.
Throughout the weekend, artists demonstrated their skills live, offering visitors the opportunity to witness creativity in action. On Friday, artist Mel Cairns brought drawing to life in the courtyard, while the ever-popular Pottastic gazebo was filled with families and visitors painting ceramics and discovering their own artistic talents.
A packed programme of masterclasses offered something for every level of experience. Visitors could try their hand at linocut printing, impressionist landscape painting and candle making, learning directly from skilled practitioners in relaxed and welcoming surroundings.
Saturday brought another packed programme, including a performance by the Hemley Hillbillies in support of Parkinson's charities and a live plein air oil painting demonstration by renowned artist Derek Witchell. Workshops in jewellery making, needle felting, watercolour painting and wildlife ink-and-wash techniques ensured there was creativity around every corner.
On Sunday, the Blue in Green Jazz Band provided the perfect soundtrack as visitors enjoyed further demonstrations from Derek Witchell alongside masterclasses in drypoint etching and the intricate craft of gilded lettering on glass.
Food, Friendship and Festival Atmosphere
Creativity was only part of the story.
Throughout the weekend, visitors enjoyed exceptional food and hospitality from Oxmoor Farm's café and restaurant. Delicious cakes, cocktails, French-inspired dishes and locally sourced refreshments transformed the event into a true day out rather than simply an exhibition.
The atmosphere was one of genuine warmth and community. Visitors lingered over conversations, shared recommendations, admired new discoveries and returned repeatedly throughout the weekend to experience everything the event had to offer.
Even the sale desk became a hub of activity, laughter and unexpected entertainment, with impromptu performances and memorable moments adding to the festival spirit.
Art with a Purpose
The weekend proved to be a tremendous success, with record sales of original paintings and sculpture. However, The Art Exhibitionists have always believed that art can achieve more than commercial success alone.
A proportion of every ticket sold was donated to the Oxford Kidney Unit Trust Fund, helping support young people across the Thames Valley facing kidney transplants and ongoing treatment.
This commitment to community and charitable giving remains central to the group's ethos. Over the years, The Art Exhibitionists have supported a wide range of causes, including Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, the Wycombe Homeless Fund, Thames Valley Air Ambulance and Ukraine to Chilterns CIO.
A Growing Legacy
Since their formation in 2020, The Art Exhibitionists have built a reputation for creating imaginative and memorable events in remarkable settings. From churches and gardens to historic buildings and rural venues, each exhibition is carefully curated to celebrate both art and place.
Previous events at St Paul's Church, West Wycombe, Holy Trinity Church in Bledlow and the gardens of Loosley Row have all demonstrated the group's unique ability to combine professional exhibitions with a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
The transformation of Oxmoor Farm, made possible through the generosity and hospitality of Harry and Paddy. The venue provided the perfect backdrop for a weekend where art, music, learning and community came together in spectacular fashion.
For those who attended, it was far more than an art fair. It was a celebration of creativity, connection and the simple joy that comes from bringing people together through art.
And if the success of Oxmoor Farm is anything to go by, the future for The Art Exhibitionists looks brighter than ever.
