Riverside Studios at Maxfactor House Open Their Doors
A weekend of art and conversation with the artists of XYZ Brentford
A montage of the work of artists of XYZ Brentford
May 15, 2026
Brentford’s creative quarter will come alive next weekend as the artists of XYZ Brentford throw open the doors of their working studios for a three‑day celebration of making, experimenting and sharing ideas. Hosted in partnership with The Muse Gallery, the Open Studios weekend offers visitors a rare chance to step inside the usually private spaces of Maxfactor House and meet the artists.
Running from Friday 22 to Sunday 24 May, the event brings together the resident artists of XYZ Brentford — a community of painters, printmakers, sculptors and mixed‑media practitioners based in the building next to the former Watermans Building on Brentford High Street. Across the weekend, visitors can wander through the studios, see works in progress, and talk directly with artists about their processes, materials and inspirations. It’s an informal, friendly setting, with the river just a few steps away and the building’s industrial character lending a sense of creative energy to every corner.
The Open Studios are presented by The Muse Gallery, the long‑running artist‑led space on Portobello Road known for championing emerging and mid‑career artists. Through its Muse at 269 Projects strand, the gallery supports studio communities across London, offering platforms for new work, mentoring opportunities and public engagement. Its partnership with XYZ Brentford reflects a shared commitment to nurturing local talent and making contemporary art accessible to wider audiences.
XYZ Brentford itself is part of the wider XYZ Communities network, which transforms underused buildings into affordable, sustainable creative workspaces. Maxfactor House — once a cosmetics manufacturing site — now hosts a thriving cluster of studios, with artists working side by side in a space that still carries traces of its industrial past. The Open Studios weekend is one of the few moments each year when the public can explore this hidden creative world.
Across the three days, visitors can expect a relaxed, drop‑in atmosphere. Artists will be on hand to discuss current projects, from early sketches and experimental pieces to finished works ready for exhibition.
Opening times:
- Friday 22 May: 5pm – 8pm
- Saturday 23 May: 11am – 5pm
- Sunday 24 May: 11am – 5pm
Entry is free, but booking is required via Eventbrite.
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