Diary Dates: Exhibitions, concerts and an authentic French brocante

Browse a French brocante, see pottery and paintings and listen to world-class classical music live. . . all right here in Cambridge and Suffolk

The aim is, say Sue and Diana, “to showcase the versatility and beauty of clay”, as demonstrated by their own contrasting styles. While Diana uses the wheel to make functional as well as beautiful stoneware and porcelain vessels, along with a small range of jewellery, Sue slab-builds her work, much of which has a seaside feel.
“Although Clare is the smallest town in Suffolk, it is increasingly becoming an artistic hub,” add the friends. “We hope this first-ever Clay in Clare will be hugely successful and will then become an annual event.”

Athens & That: From now till September 14
Bold, bright and arresting, Jamie Ashman’s artwork is known for spotlighting contemporary issues and inequalities, from the climate crisis to gender stereotyping. The painter and printmaker’s latest exhibition - Athens & That, showing at Quip & Curiosity on Cambridge’s Tenison Road this month - explores those same subjects, but this time as seen through an Ancient Greek lens.
Featuring original paintings, limited edition iPad prints and a film by fellow creative Pakana Curtis, the show is, explains Jamie, inspired by a recent trip to Athens. “The artwork looks at Grecian culture and the influence it has had internationally, touching on mythology and Greek Classicism,” Jamie continues. “It explores ideas such as gender stereotyping, LGBTQIA+ issues and climate change - problems affecting the world now.”
Athens & That runs from August 31 to September 14. The official opening night party, on September 6, will include music from DJ duo Short & Sweet. See jamieashman.com for more.

Boule-in Fête d’Automne: September 14 to 22
Known for its immersive scene-setting displays, the autumn edition of Suffolk’s Boule-in brocante will include everything from a classically French Louis XVI-inspired salon to a hipster-style glamping tent with a Moroccan flavour.
Taking place every season at the founders’ Bildeston home and garden, the Boule-in brings the beauty - and fabulous finds - of French markets to our doorstep. Expect everything from fine antiques to mid-century decor and contemporary collectibles, all laid out in themed room sets - along with the salon and tent, the Fête d’Automne will feature both a modern rustic kitchen and a florist-shop fantasy.
Also new is a clothing boutique selling solely French brands. The walled garden will, as usual, host a pop-up cafe, live music and a potting shed selling bulbs, plants, containers and gardenalia.
Souring their collections directly from Provence, where they have a second home, the Boule-in’s Cathy and Peter Bullen “want our customers and friends to feel transported to the magic of Provence,” they explain. “Whether you have a penchant for all things French or simply seek an enjoyable day out, Fête d’Automne promises to be an unforgettable shopping experience.”
The Boule-in Fête d’Automne runs from September 14 to 22, open 10am to 5pm daily, at 77 High Street, Bildeston, Suffolk IP7 7ER. See boule-in.co.uk

Cambridge Music Festival: September 29 to November 21
Known for bringing “the very best the classical music world has to offer” to our doorsteps, Cambridge Music Festival has just unveiled its autumn 2024 programme - and it’s a contender for best yet. Unmissable events include the world-famous Philip Glass Ensemble performing the contemporary composer’s minimalist masterpiece Glassworks (September 29); celebrated pianist Boris Giltburg playing a romantic repertoire of Chopin and Rachmaninov (October 16); and Cambridge’s own Choir of King’s College and Britten Sinfonia staging Mozart’s seismic Requiem with guest-star soprano Mary Bevan.
Master of the West African kora - a 21-string cross between a harp and a lute, described as “capable of astonishing virtuosity and lyricism” - Jali Bakary is also making his much-feted debut at the festival (November 21).
For more information, including the full programme and ticket booking, visit cambridgemusicfestival.co.uk