From May 31st – June 8th this year, artists all over the Highlands will throw open their doors and invite you in to have a look behind the scenes of a busy artist’s studio. Painters, printmakers, makers of woollen, wooden, stone, clay, delicate and dramatic objects will welcome in the public to see them at work. It’s a rare opportunity to enjoy a visit and gain an insight into the workings of a Highland Artist.

Artists’ studios are as different and varied as the artists themselves. From clean and pristine, orderly and methodical spaces to organised and sometimes even what looks like disorganised chaos – all the colours of the rainbow with a different character behind every door. The term ‘studio’ is used euphemistically as studios can be anything from professional commercial galleries, and studios to kitchen tables, attics, garden sheds, even marquees!

A visit to an individual artist in the intimacy of their own workplace is a hugely enjoyable and even an inspirational experience where the artist is happy to explain ideas and demonstrate their own particular methods.

The Highlands Open Studios 2008 group is an exciting organisation of 106 artists, craft-makers and galleries, living and working across the Highlands from Ballachuilish in the south to John O’Groats in the north and from Tomintoul in the east right across to the Western Isles. Artists are working together to promote and showcase the best of art currently available across the Highland region.

The brand new 2008 Directory of Artists, Makers, Studios and Galleries will be launched at Eden Court on Friday April 4th at 6.30. This directory provides a map and directions to each studio and since many studios are quite near to each other, it’s possible to plan your own studio trail visiting several venues throughout the Highlands. You can buy straight from the artist and commissions are most welcome. Why not check out the directory or the website (www.highlandsopenstudios.co.uk) which details all the studios with contact numbers and opening times.

For more information on any aspect of Highlands Open Studios 2008 or if you’re interested in becoming a member please contact:

Chairman:
Fred Black: 01463 831573 fandgblack@ukonline.co.uk
Secretary:
Caroline Hewat 01349 877434 caroline.hewat@virgin.net