Talented artists open up studios in Weymouth and Portland

There are Open Studio events in Weymouth and Portland, where members of Artwey are displaying their work, and also in and around Bridport.

Breaking away from the tradition of intimidating and silent galleries, the artists are opening their homes, workshops and studios and inviting the public to come on in and see them at work.

“I think we have generated something of a cult following,” said Bill Crumbleholme, who will be displaying his clay works along with the other Upwey Potters at the Old School in Upwey, near Weymouth.

“People come and see us and then come back and bring their friends. It is a great opportunity for people to meet us and for us to explain to them what we do. There’s no pressure on people to buy anything, it is all very relaxed and a nice way of working.

This is the third year that Artwey have held an open studios event and this summer it runs from tomorrow until June 12.

One of the more family-orientated events is the chance to have a go at stone carving at the Beach Hut Studios at Portland Bill where artists Sarah Gilpin and Wendy Manning will be working.

Weymouth artist Susan Hughes is exhibiting her work in her Holland Road house and has also been chosen as part of Dorchester Arts centre’s Open 2011 exhibition, which is taking place in the arts centre gallery from tomorrow until June 11.

She is also holding a workshop with local author Sue Ashby on June 8.

Susan said: “The open studios are not elitist. Weymouth is full of different people and things and I think the artwork we display reflects that.”

Bridport Open Studios runs until May 30 and involves more than 50 artists and craftspeople.

Director Philomena Harmsworth said: “Don’t be shy! Open Studio events are designed to bring the public into the artists workplace – to give you a feeling for the creative process.”

Details of Artswey are available at artswey.co.uk and Bridport Open Studios details are at bridportopenstudios.co.uk