Norfolk Open Studios 2021
The joy of Norfolk Open Studios
Norfolk Open Studios returned after two years this autumn, as artists across the county opened their doors to visitors. Ros Dixon, Norfolk Open Studios Officer, discusses what it means to the artists to be able to showcase their work again, and the value of getting up close and personal with art.
Norfolk Open Studios 2021 is happening now! After last year’s event had to be cancelled, as well as this year being the first time it is being held in the autumn, it feels particularly special. It means a lot to artists that they can open their studio doors again, and from what I have already heard, visitors are enjoying exploring Norfolk, and discovering and being inspired by the talented and diverse artist community we are lucky enough to have here in Norfolk.
The main reasons it appeals to so many is that it offers an informal and friendly way for everyone to enjoy and find out more about artists and makers, and the wide range of creative mediums being practised.
Norfolk Open Studios has taken place since 1994 and has grown from involving a handful of artist studios to now including hundreds of artists across Norfolk as well as Norfolk schools. The main reasons it appeals to so many is that it offers an informal and friendly way for everyone to enjoy and find out more about artists and makers, and the wide range of creative mediums being practised. Studios are free to visit and easy to find, with participating artists right across the county, in our busy cities and towns as well as along quiet, country lanes.
The scheme offers so much. It’s not just about seeing and buying artwork, it’s about allowing visitors to see artists’ workspaces, techniques used, find out about an artist’s life and career, and in many cases have a go at something themselves. The scheme gives so much to both artists and visitors, and it’s always a pleasure to hear visitors reporting that they have gone on and signed-up to a new creative workshop after visiting and meeting an artist.
Norfolk Open Studios is one of the most popular arts events in the county and has been for over 25 years. With it offering so much to so many, I imagine it will remain so for many more years to come. We’re delighted it’s back.
Interested in taking part in Norfolk Open Studios 2022? Email your details to openstudios@nnfestival.org.uk and you will be added to our mailing list and receive application details in the new year.
Click here to visit the Norfolk Open Studios website.
Header Image:NO21 Corrin Tulk – oil painting demonstrations NOS 2021
Copy Images: Adam Slatter / Martin Pigg credit Moseley Imagery, NOS Preview Exhibition 2021