Artists in Residence

Meet the talented artists in residence at Creative Maidstone and discover the people, ideas and creative practices behind our artist studios.

Based in the heart of Maidstone, Creative Maidstone provides affordable studio space for local artists and makers. Our studios are home to a growing community of creatives working across different artistic disciplines.

From painting and drawing to printmaking, ceramics, textiles and handmade crafts, each artist brings their own experience, ideas and creative approach to the Hub.

Meet Our Artists

Ayse Akay

Ayse is an artist specialising in acrylic pouring and the creation of handmade crochet bags. With a background in mathematics, she brings a sense of structure and balance to her work while embracing the freedom and unpredictability of fluid paints. Her acrylic pieces explore the harmony of colour and form, resulting in dynamic and distinctive compositions.

Alongside her painting practice, she designs and produces handmade crochet bags that combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary style. Each piece reflects originality, functionality, and careful attention to detail.

Beyond her artistic practice, Ayse is the mother of three boys, one of whom is autistic. She also volunteers at her son’s school, contributing her time and skills to support the community. These personal experiences have strengthened her commitment to resilience, inclusivity, and creativity—values that are deeply woven into her art.

Through exhibitions, workshops, and creative markets, she shares her passion for artistic expression, aiming to inspire others while continuing to grow and expand her own creative journey.

Follow Ayse on Instagram: @ayshaasatelier

Malgorzata Sears

Malgorzata is an artist and art historian who has joined Creative Maidstone to rekindle her fine art practice after a period of academic work and maternity leave. She studied fine art in Cornwall (Falmouth) and art history in London (Courtauld Institute of Art), where she was awarded her doctorate, subsequently published as a book, and was a Visiting Lecturer. 

Malgorzata is interested in the fundamentals of how we can express through drawing what we see. She is a committed draughtswoman with classical training in drawing which she received in Poland. During her studies in Cornwall she developed a practice in painting and printmaking, and has previously exhibited at the Royal Academy of Arts (Summer Exhibition) and the Mall Galleries in London. She is currently exploring clay as a medium of choice which she pursues at the Aylesford School of Ceramics.

Discover the Creative Community

The artists at Creative Maidstone are part of a wider creative community in the town.

As well as working from their studios, artists can exhibit their work, sell their creations and take part in workshops and events at the Hub. This creates opportunities to meet other creatives, connect with local audiences and share ideas.

Find out more about Artist Studios

Visit Creative Maidstone

Want to discover the work of our artists for yourself?

Visit Creative Maidstone in the heart of Maidstone town centre. You can explore exhibitions, browse artwork and handmade products in our Shop & Retail area, or take part in one of our creative workshops.

Explore Exhibition Space

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