MORE than 20 of Teesdale’s artisans will be throwing open the doors to their studios later this month.
The event, from Saturday, April 28, to Monday, May 7, celebrates the visual arts in its many forms and brings together painters, ceramicists, felt workers, jewellers, textile artists, printmakers, illustrators, sculptors, a costume designer and a milliner.
In addition to the 22 artists and makers taking part in the open studios event, a showcase exhibition opening on April 27, at The Witham will feature work by 31 members of TeesdaleArtNet, the newly formed organisation to connect and support artists living and working in the dale.
This exhibition will run until May 26 and provides a taster for the inaugural open studios event.
Open studios events have become a popular aspect of the art calendar for artists and art lovers alike in recent years.
TeesdaleArtNet’s Ann Whitfield said: “For the artists, particularly those living and working in remote areas, it’s a great opportunity to not only sell their work, but also meet interested members of the public.
“The public see artists in their working environment, gaining an insight into the tools they work with and the sources of their inspiration and if they wish to, they can buy or commission work directly from the artists them- selves.”
Bus tours to reach more remote areas have been arranged.
The first, on Saturday, April 28, departs at 10.30am from The Witham to take visitors to Startforth, Cotherstone, Mickleton and Middleton, stopping for lunch at The Crown, Mickleton.
The second, on Friday, May 4, leaves The Witham at 10.30am to travel to Lynesack, Winston, Whorlton, Eggleston, Romaldkirk, Bowes and Barningham, with a stop for lunch at Fernaville’s Rest, in Whorlton. There are 16 places on each bus at £10 per person (not including meals) so booking is essential.
A programme of workshops and drop in taster sessions is also being arranged.
Brochures containing all the details are available from outlets around the area or a PDF can be downloaded from the website at www.teesdale artnet.org.uk.
To find out more about the workshops and bus tour or for any other details email teesdaleartnet@gmail.com.
