In recent years there has been an influx of creatives making the move to Plymouth, drawn to the city’s holistic way of life and burgeoning creative scene. Plymouth’s allure not only lies in its breathtaking natural surroundings, but the authentic community and network that has blossomed for those in the creative arts scene. We caught up with both Eat Work Art employees and our Plymouth-based residents to find out their top reasons why this city is the place for your creative practice. 

Inspiring natural settings

Set on an iconic coastal rise, one of the main draws for many who have embraced Plymouth life is the proximity to the sea. Alma Yard resident Richcraft Furniture relocated to the city to be able to enjoy water-based hobbies on the coast. 

‘Having the Sea on your doorstep makes it so much more enjoyable’

Being able to take a dip for a wild swim in the summer (or the cooler months for those brave enough) and finding creative inspiration against the backdrop of the waves adds to Plymouth’s maritime charm. Not only that, but Plymouth is only a 20-minute drive away from the rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park. A luscious green space spanning for miles with deep river valleys and dense forestry, the juxtaposition of the moor with the ocean provides Plymouthians with truly the best of both worlds. 

Creative Network 

With a vast array of creatives across industries calling Plymouth home, it’s a hotspot for connecting like-minded people and forming exciting collaborations. A plethora of independent galleries, such as Karst, can be found here along with one of the UK’s top creative universities, Arts University Plymouth. Having moved from London and now based at Light Studios, we caught up with artist Karol Nastuniak. ‘I have met some incredible artists living and professionally working here. All of them speak so well about Plymouth and I know why, because it is a great place to live and develop an artistic path.’

Creative Events

Bolstering this bustling creative scene, Plymouth plays host to a series of thriving creative and cultural events. Plymouth Design Forum, co-founded by Alma Yard resident James Edgar Studio, is a monthly event bringing together designers, makers and artists to champion and discuss design thinking in the city. Our Resident Curation and Marketing Lead, Georgie Tyson said ‘growing up in Exeter I never really got to experience the tapestry of creative events in Plymouth, which joining Eat Work Art and coming to Plymouth has allowed me to do. I love going to Plymouth Design Forum and am so excited that Eat Work Art will be sponsoring their guest speaker series across 2024 to introduce and entice nationally recognised designers to the city.’ 

Independent culture

With the communities across both Alma Yard and Light Studios encompassing a collection of independent businesses, Plymouth is a buzz with small businesses that support independent shopping, eating and culture. Local hotspots such as Minerva Plymouth showcase the best of local culinary talent, along with creating space for grass roots creatives to connect and showcase their work. In the city, you can find a number of maker's markets across the year including Nice Things Art Fair, Plymouth Plant Fest and Alma Yard’s very own Christmas Late. Alma Yard resident Silver Roots moved to Plymouth from the North of England. 

‘From my experience with Silver Roots/Plymouth Plant Fest and supporting local markets, it's evident that the city embraces the spirit of entrepreneurship, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a fresh start in a place that values individuality and creativity.’