In just two weeks time the workshops across the county will be open for Hampshire Open Studios – join me in Romsey with three other artists and find out more about the art on your doorstep.
My good friend Kate will be throwing open the doors of her beautiful garden studio for eight whole days from Saturday 22 August. Kate is a talented glass fuser and ceramicist; she’ll be exhibiting her dramatic yet wearable jewellery and home accessories, and showing off her workshops. We’ll be joined by silver and wire jeweller Fiona Alexander (my Mum!) and local painter Christine Dear.
Usually based in Portsmouth, Fiona enjoys working in silver to make dainty bangles, rings and pendants. She also creates whimsical steampunk inspired pieces using wire, beads and mixed-media techniques; making everything from brooches to necklaces.
If you’re looking for something delightful for your wall, then you won’t fail to be impressed by Christine Dear‘s superb paintings. Based in Southampton, Christine works mainly in oils and pastels, and has a passion for bright colours.
Completing the quartet, I’ll be showcasing my beadwork, with an array of unique handmade jewellery available to buy, as well having as all of my kits and patterns on display. I will be offering free demonstrations over both of the weekends, so come along to learn how to create your own beaded jewellery!
Hampshire Open Studios runs from 22-31 August; set over two weekends and encompassing the days in between as well as the bank holiday Monday, there are over 200 venues open across the county. In Romsey itself you’ll find plenty of venues open to explore; with artists ranging from wood turners to painters. While myself and my three friends will be closed on Tuesday 25th and Wednesday 26th, we’ll be open from 10am – 5pm on all other days. We’re venue number 74 in the booklet and situated very close to the town centre.
I do hope you can pop by to meet us at the Romsey Studios at the end of this month, but if you can’t then make sure you try to visit just one of your local studios, and help support the artists hiding in your neighbourhood.
More information on Hampshire Open Studios can be found on the website, along with maps and info about the artists. Look out for one of the pink booklets at venues around Hampshire.
