Art Eat Festival dazzles crowds on Ipswich Waterfront

Tallulah Goodtimes was one of a clutch of DJs performing at the Art Eat festival this weekend Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

The event dominated the waterfront, stretching from live music and DJs close to the DanceEast studio near Stoke Bridge, all the way to the University of Suffolk and the Cult Cafe, with food stalls dotted throughout the art installations.

Visitors fully embraced the spirit of the free festival, with people dancing along to live music and revelling in the colourful parade by the Suffolk School of Samba.

Art workshops also let people get hands-on creatively - with co-organisers Iona Hodgson and Daisy Lees hoping the event will make art more accessible to the public in Suffolk and provide a platform for local artists.

Murals along the Waterfront and nearby streets have been designed and installed by national artists working with local youth organisations to create a permanent monument to the festival, described by organisers as "a gift to the town."

Co-organiser Iona Hodgson in action on the Saturday of the festival, which took over the Ipswich Waterfront Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

The next event is planned for 2021.

Amy Coulthard, Tasha Gaskin and Aimee Hayes enjoy a cocktail in the sun Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Robert Burr with his bubble waffle, one of dozens of treats on offer at the festival's food stalls Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Crystal, Matthew and Skylar enjoy the festival Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Geoff Malvisi from Twickenham Gin Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Textile artist Clare Sams, who invited visitors to try their hand at becoming a 'human loom' Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Visitors flocked to the waterfront to enjoy the Art Eat festival Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Story teller Gerry Donlon Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)

Charlotte Hammock and Harrison Dean turned out for the festival and the sunshine Picture: SARAH LUCY BROWN (Image: Archant)