Open studios call to exhibitors

Arran Open Studios (AOS) has had its first meeting of the new year when some exciting initiatives were planned to accompany the seventh year of its operations.

After last year’s very successful biscuit tin initiative, organisers are enthusiastic that the project will be repeated and built on. It is hoped that it can be extended to the mainland to encourage artists across Scotland to reflect on the open studios across the Clyde.

Also planned is a joint venture with COAST, whose new premises in Lamlash, it is hoped, will host a small themed exhibition in the week prior to and including the open studios weekend.

The long weekend this year is from August 10 to 13 inclusive and organisers are keen to invite art/ craft newcomers to the island or previous exhibitors to consider showing and supporting the flourishing venture.

Participants and advertisers alike have benefited from the open studios event and organisers believe that the more who participate, the more the appreciating public have to choose from. Already organisers know that people visit from the mainland, many of them there for the duration of the weekend to attend the various studios.

The AOS was begun by Josephine Broekhuizen and Sarah Cook and has become a contemporary island fixture and continues to give island makers of all descriptions an unparalleled shop window at the height of the season.

Anyone wishing to take part this year need only get in contact with Ruth Mae at Southbank Studio on 820373 or check out the AOS website at www.arranopenstudios.com.