Open Studios Cornwall 2018

About

Open Studios Cornwall 2018 promises the richest mix yet as 320 artists, designers and makers – the county’s creative movers and shakers – invite us into curious spaces and beautiful places to experience their artistic practice.

From Saturday 19th to Monday 28th May, set-designers and sculptors; milliners and magazine editors; painters, printmakers and potters will throw open their studio doors to the general public to stage one of the UK’s most alluring art trails.

From Constantine and Callington to Polzeath and Portlooe, in historic harbours, verdant valleys and glorious gardens, a record-breaking number of participants will unleash their creativity in this, the fourteenth year of this popular arts initiative.

“Whether working with glass or graphite, in paint or porcelain, with the lathe or the loom, the sheer variety of disciplines this year will captivate and inspire,” says Director of Creative Skills, Jane Sutherland, who leads the scheme. “Not only does Open Studios provide us with an intimate glimpse of the creative process, it also takes us on a journey to previously unseen corners, enabling us to experience Cornwall from an entirely different perspective.”

What’s more, this year’s event will take in half-term and the Spring Bank Holiday so that even more people will be able to grab a guide, plot their route and marvel at the diversity of colour and pattern; line and form that is to be discovered.

Through their work, artists will also reveal the inner workings of their imaginations, whether they are inspired by the dramatic energy of the Cornish coastline; nature and the countryside, or the frailty of the human condition.

“Cornish creatives often work in isolation and welcome this opportunity for new eyes to appraise their artwork,” explains Jane. “Year on year, our participants affirm that this feedback helps them to develop and motivates them to produce more. Open Studios is also about providing opportunities for art lovers to own original pieces, whether that be an exquisite, hand-printed card for £2, a luxurious throw for £200 or a magnificent canvas for £2000. Not only are we opening our eyes to new experiences, we are also supporting Cornwall’s creative economy.”

Open Studios Cornwall also reveals an extraordinary number of skills and crafts – from willow weaving and book binding to metal working and cabinet making – so there really is something for all tastes.

Why not open your eyes to Open Studios Cornwall and chart your own course through our creative county?