Event

Hampshire Artists Open Studios

Throughout Hampshire, 16-31 August 2008

This annual event is an art trail which allows the public to visit artists and craft makers in their homes, studios, workshops and sometimes village halls for larger groups. This is our eighth year, and there will probably be around 200 venues to visit throughout the county - that's around 600 artists involved.

Established artists and first time exhibitors will be showcasing their work and prices are often below gallery prices. Artists often make their own greetings cards, which they hope you will buy as souvenirs even if you cannot afford the original, larger works, but there is never pressure to purchase. Visitors have the unique experience of meeting the artists, and possibly watching them at work, or demonstrating.

Most venues exhibit for all of the sixteen days, and most are open from about 11.00 to 6.00 each day. Some exhibitors will also offer you refreshments, or you can lunch in local pubs.

Please look at the Visitors Guide for precise times and days and details of disabled access. Some artists welcome visitors throughout the year, but please phone first.

Look out for the bright pink direction arrows to help you locate the venues. Unfortunately, however, Southampton and Eastleigh local authorities have strict rules which prevent us using these signs. All venues are free, although some artists may suggest a donation to their chosen charity. Occasionally there may be car parking fees in city venues.

The Visitors Guide is available from Tourist Information Centres, galleries, libraries, museums, and many other outlets.

Or by post with SAE from
Wendi Watson / Hampshire Open Studios
95 Station Road, Netley Abbey,
Southampton
Hampshire SO31 5AH

02380 453 475 - wendi.watson@virgin.net or from the website www.hampshireartists.org.uk

Evelyn Bartlett