Local artists sparkle for Herts Open Studios Silver Anniversary

Back in 1990, the stargazing telescope, Hubble was launched into space while closer to home, the popular Herts Open Studios arts festival began – an event that has been celebrating Hertfordshire’s very own creative stars for the past 25 years.

Every year since then, around 200 glittering artists and craftspeople living or working in Hertfordshire, have opened their studio doors to shine in this popular county-wide event. It is expected around 12,000 visits will be made to artists and craftspeople in their studios across Hertfordshire this September.

Organised by Herts Visual Arts and their team of dedicated volunteers, the event aims to introduce artists to the general public, galleries and other enterprises, bringing an awareness of the diversity of talent available throughout the county. Artists take the opportunity to demonstrate their creativity in action, which is often viewed by members of the public as being one of the most valuable aspects of the event. Interaction with visitors can be a catalyst for new ideas and can build confidence, so visitors are encouraged to talk to artists about their work, ask questions or even have a go themselves.

The New Maynard Gallery in Welwyn Garden City will be showcasing painting, sculpture, printmaking, glass, photography, ceramics , textiles and jewellery by artists participating in Herts Open Studios this September. The exhibition opens on 10th July and runs until 5th September, open from 9am until 9pm each day. It promises to give a real flavour of the artists we have here in Hertfordshire and the type of quality we can expect to see during Herts Open Studios.

Mel Hilbrown, Chairman of Herts Visual Arts encourages us all to make visits to artists in their studios this September. “The artists themselves fund Open Studios and especially the publicity to promote it, so that you can enjoy a free event. Please take full advantage of this wonderful opportunity, whether you are a collector, an artist yourself or just curious.”

Herts Open Studios takes place from 5 – 27 September and is free. Pick up one of 25,000 colour brochures that can be found in libraries, museums and tourist information offices across the county. The brochure includes details of every participating artist, images of their work and opening hours – why not select your local stars and plan your constellation of visits?!

For details about Herts Visual Arts, or to obtain a copy of the Herts Open Studios brochure visit www.hvaf.org.uk, email openstudios@hvaf.org.uk, or ring 07813 100651. Follow our activities all year round on Twitter @HVAF and Facebook – HertsVisualArts.

About the artists:

Jeweller, Alison Berthelsen describes her work as ‘fresh, modern, quirky pieces in silver, gold & semi-precious stones’. From wedding rings to cufflinks, Alison loves working with the story behind the idea for a piece.

Des Gould is a photographer focusing on the fragility of beauty, and our landscape is no exception. Des explains, ‘I create photos to show both sides. I offer classic and evocative art that addresses real live issues.’

Jean Langdon will be displaying her hand-built ceramic pots which are inspired by classical forms.

Brigid Marlin uses Egg Tempera and Oil Glazing methods of the Italian Renaissance masters. Painting, sculpture and printmaking are amongst her talents that will be on display during Herts Open Studios this year.

Brian Robinson’s strong colourful watercolour paintings of the Chilterns and further afield, are mostly inspired by the play of sun, shadow and reflections on both land and water.