About Me & Art on the Vines

Hi, I’m Rik Saggers — a full-time artist for over 14 years and a passionate supporter of our creative community.

After more than 20 years of taking part in exhibitions, I decided it was probably about time I organised a few myself!

I feel incredibly fortunate to have been part of such a wonderful art community over the years. I’ve always been grateful to the people who give their time to organise the exhibitions and events that allow artists like me to do what we love. Eventually, I felt it was time to give something back.

And that’s how Art on the Vines began.

From artist to organiser

Like many artists, I started my journey by attending just about any craft fair or exhibition that would have me, travelling far and wide with my artwork.

I loved getting out into the community and meeting people face to face. Being an artist can mean spending an awful lot of time working alone at home or in the studio, so exhibitions weren't just somewhere to sell my work — they were a chance to meet people, talk about art and feel part of something.

Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to take part in some wonderful exhibitions, including the official art exhibitions at the Royal Norfolk Show, Tendring Show, Hadleigh Show and Suffolk Show. I’ve also been extremely honoured to be invited to demonstrate my artwork live at the Suffolk Show during the last three Show years.

I'm equally grateful to the galleries that have exhibited and sold my work over the years. Every exhibition, organiser, gallery and person I've met along the way has played a part in my journey.

All of those experiences helped inspire me to create Art on the Vines.

More than an art exhibition

Art on the Vines isn't just an exhibition — it's an experience.

We bring together exceptional artists and showcase their work in beautiful vineyards, creating relaxed and welcoming events where people can discover original art, meet the artists, enjoy live music and entertainment, try something creative and, of course, enjoy a glass of something produced just a few steps away.

We want visitors to get to know not only the artwork, but the people who create it and the vineyards that welcome us.

Celebrating our creative community

The artists involved in Art on the Vines are part of the creative heartbeat of our region.

Among them are gallery owners, professional artists and more than a dozen art tutors who spend their weeks encouraging others to pick up a pencil, paintbrush or pastel and discover their own creativity.

Many hire local halls, studios and community spaces in towns and villages across the region, running classes, demonstrations and exhibitions and bringing art directly into their communities.

Art on the Vines gives us the opportunity to bring these artists together, celebrate what they do and introduce their work to an even wider audience.

Everyone is welcome

Our events are for everyone.

You might be a seasoned art lover or collector. You might be looking for your first original piece of art. You might be bringing the family for a day out, or perhaps you've never visited an art exhibition before and simply fancy spending a few hours somewhere beautiful.

There are opportunities to meet artists, discover different styles and mediums, try something creative yourself, enjoy great local wine and, most importantly, spend time with people.

You don't need to know anything about art. You just need to come along and enjoy it.

I'm incredibly proud of what Art on the Vines is becoming and of the artists, vineyards and communities who are helping to make it happen.

I hope you'll come and experience it for yourself.

I can't wait to welcome you to Art on the Vines.

Rik Saggers
Founder & Creative Director
Art on the Vines