Farleys House & Gallery in Lewes has announced two summer events aimed at drawing local audiences and visitors back to the Grade II-listed house and its gardens. The weekend of 28–30 August will see a comedy evening that riffs on art history followed by the gallery's long-running Surrealist Picnic.
Art meets comedy in the Lee Miller Gallery
On Friday 28 August the Lee Miller Gallery will host Art Laughs, a live show devised by art historian and comedian Verity Babbs. The series has previously appeared at national venues including the National Gallery and at the Edinburgh Fringe. The evening is billed as a mix of art history, storytelling and stand-up that explores the curious and often amusing stories behind artworks.
"The Art Laughs comedy night will take place on August 28"
The event signals an effort by Farleys to present itself not only as a site of artistic heritage but also as a space for alternative, accessible cultural programming that might appeal to both regular gallery visitors and new audiences.
Surreal celebration on the lawn
Two days later, on Sunday 30 August, Farleys will stage its Annual Surrealist Picnic in the house grounds and Sculpture Garden. The picnic promises live music, performance, dance and extravagant costumes, with visitors encouraged to don Surrealist-inspired outfits and bring picnic hampers to enjoy the afternoon on the lawn.
- What: Art Laughs (comedy) and Annual Surrealist Picnic
- When: 28 August (Art Laughs); 30 August (Surrealist Picnic)
- Where: Farleys House & Gallery, Lewes — Lee Miller Gallery and surrounding grounds/Sculpture Garden
- Tickets: Available via the Farleys House & Gallery website
| Event | Date | Main elements |
|---|---|---|
| Art Laughs | 28 Aug | Comedy, art history, storytelling (Lee Miller Gallery) |
| Annual Surrealist Picnic | 30 Aug | Live music, performance, dance, costumes, Sculpture Garden |
Both events provide opportunities for residents to engage with Farleys' programme beyond exhibitions, helping to animate the historic house and its grounds across late summer. For practical details including ticket prices and availability, visitors are directed to the gallery's official website.
