Explore county’s art – all for free

Warwickshire’s largest free visual arts event opens its doors this month.
Stonecarver Moira MorrissStonecarver Moira Morriss
Stonecarver Moira Morriss

Running from June 27 to July 12, Warwickshire Open Studios involves 239 artists from around the county inviting the public in to enjoy their work.

Jo Powers, artist and leader of Warwickshire Open Studios, said: “Every summer, hundreds of visitors tell us that Open Studios is a really great day out with art trails to follow, quirky venues to enjoy, cake to eat and a huge variety of art to enjoy from huge sculptures to fine jewellery, breezy watercolours to meticulous miniatures.

“If you’ve not come across us before, it’s a similar idea to Open Gardens, and you can find out more in our free brochure and website where we list 120 beautiful homes, studios, historic barns, workmanlike sheds, lovely gardens and other gems - all filled with our artists’ paintings, ceramics, photography, jewellery, textiles, glass, furniture and more.

‘We’ve award-winning artists to up and coming new faces, artists at work and artists who love to share the way they work and let you take a peek behind the scenes. You’ll see fascinating ‘work in progress’ and some artists even offering the chance to have a go yourself.”

There will be Art Trails in Leamington, Rugby, Stratford, Coventry, Warwick and Kenilworthm while those interested in a particular genre of art can visit artists of a similiar type by visiting the festival’s website. Jo added: “Pick up a brochure from local outlets such as libraries and galleries or go to our website and start planning your own day out and enjoy free admission to some really great art.”

Warwickshire Open Studios has been running since 2002 and is now an annual event. It is completely run by volunteers who are all artists themselves. Visit www.warwickshireopenstudios.org for details.