ArtHouses is an artist led project which hosts artists and artworks in the homes, gardens and public spaces of Whitley Bay. It offers new situations to develop and present artworks, engaging audiences with contemporary arts practice and helping make Whitley Bay a vibrant and creative place to live.

ArtHouses supports artists in innovative ways of working, commissioning new artworks and creating conversation and engagement with street-wide weekend festivals, online and hybrid projects, workshops and live art comedy nights.

ArtHouses was initiated by Tracey Tofield in 2010 as a part of Whitley Bay Film Festival. Since 2017 the project has been led by artists Sophie Buxton and Rob Smith, alongside a team of artists which has brought in new members each year.