Evesham's artists opening their studio doors on bank holiday weekend

The annual Worcestershire Open Studios returns from August 28 to 31 after last year’s event was cancelled because of the pandemic.

The largest free art event in Worcestershire is in its sixth year and allows visitors to go behind the scenes of some of the area’s top artists as they open their studios for all to come in and learn more about their work.

Event organiser and artist, Richard Nicholls, said: "Worcestershire Open Studios offers visitors the opportunity to see the work of artists of all kinds, and more importantly to speak with them, to learn about the materials and techniques they use and to find out what inspires them.”

Across the county, 82 artists are participating at 58 different venues, including four artists from the Evesham area.

Debbie Baird, a painter from Evesham, said: “I have found the recent lockdown strangely liberating, allowing me to focus more of my energy on art-making of all types.

“Partly this has been inspired by the art groups I work with, and the wide range of inspiring art available online, but I also think I have found a little solace in doing what I love.

“I have been building a body of work that I am now ready to share and so this is my debut in Worcestershire Open Studios.”

Louis Hancox is a textile artist who works out of her home studio in Church Lench.

She said: “In the heart of the Worcestershire countryside, I design and create original textile paintings, 3D vessels, home accessories and wearable art.

“Much of my work is inspired by the flora and fauna on my doorstep and the changing landscape across our beautiful British Isles.”

She added: “A visit to my home will find me in the garden room. You are most welcome to walk through the

garden to join me there, where I will have a varied selection of my work on display and available for sale.

“In addition, I will be including some works in progress, giving you a small insight into my colourful and creative world.”