Worcestershire Open Studios

Now in its fifth year, the county’s largest free art event invites visitors to go behind normally closed doors “to see the inside of artists’ studios and shared spaces and to talk to them about how they make their work”.

There will be a wide range of art on display by individual artists and groups, including paintings, printmaking, fused-glass jewellery, ceramics, stained glass, photography, textile art, handloom weaving, hand bound books and carpentry.

Entry to all venues is free and some artists will also be offering visitors the opportunity to watch demonstrations and have a go at their art form.

Sally Morgan, one of the event organisers and a participating artist, said, “Worcestershire Open Studios is such a fun-filled way to spend a bank holiday weekend.

“We’ve got more artists than ever taking part, so whether you’re an art lover, a crafter, a budding young artist or a family looking for a fun day out, you’ll definitely find something to interest you!”

There are more than 180 artists at 83 locations around the county to visit, including many within walking distance of one another in Worcester.

And anyone who visits five venues can complete an entry to win a £100 voucher to spend with any of the participating artists.

For many artists, it’s a welcome opportunity to really engage with the public.

Frans Wesselman will be opening his home studio in the Wylds Lane area of the city to show his etchings, wood cuts and stained glass panels.

He said, “I enjoy the whole event, from installing the work, one of the few occasions I see it together, to talking to visitors. This is one of the rare times when I get to meet the public.

“It is good to get direct feedback, and it is sociable. Through Worcestershire Open Studios I have made friends in the area, sold work and got many interesting comments, which have helped me develop new work.”

Tom Greenway, a carpenter and green woodworker based in the city, said, “I wanted to combine green woodworking with more traditional carpentry so I built a timber framed workshop in my garden to use in my spare time. I will set up a shave-horse in my garden so visitors can try a traditional green woodworking technique.”

Cherrie Mansfield, an abstract painter based in Barbourne and one of the event organisers, said, “It’s a great way to meet people and share my artwork with new audiences.

“It’s also brilliant for getting to know other artists nearby, there’s quite a cluster in the area where I live!”

Visitors can plan their route with an interactive postcode search on the Worcestershire Open Studios website or by picking up a guide in libraries, tourist information centres and other locations listed at www.worcestershireopenstudios.org.uk