Lucky Dip is back at Chalkwell Hall on Wednesday 6 March! This quarterly event is a space for local artists and creatives to meet new faces, connect, share ideas and celebrate the joy in art.

Book free tickets here.

First up, we’ll have a creative workshop led by our guest artist host for this month, Elspeth Billie Penfold.

Elspeth will guide us through her artistic practice which combines walking, weaving and performative storytelling. After a performance and short video, we’ll explore the creative space through a historical textile technique known as ‘quipu’. Elspeth’s session will end collaboratively as we assemble a woven vara pole together, connecting threads and poetry.

The second half is for mingling. Our bar will be open, and we’ll be spinning our artist-made tombola created especially for Southend. Come with something to share, to spark collaborations, and even throw those creative challenges you’ve been chewing on into the mix.

Lucky Dip breaks down the formal format of networking to bring people together in an accessible, fun and informal way. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into Southend’s art scene, join us for evenings that are relaxed and creatively inspiring.

Doors are at 7pm and tickets are limited, so be sure to book your free place here.

A bit about Elspeth

Elspeth (Billie) Penfold is a textile artist who combines walking, weaving and performative storytelling. Bille uses hapticity and psychogeography to connect threads and words. She hand-spins ropes which are knotted by participants as part of performative events. Billie’s approach to multi-layered storytelling is influenced by her Andean Background. Her practice includes many voices, presenting a world view through the indigenous language of Quechua that is relational and complex.