Meet The Open Studios Artists

I'm sure you will all know by now that Perthshire Open Studios is one of the areas most successful annual events.  This year's offering has pulled toegther a staggering 140 venues with over 200 artists from Perthshire and Kinross-shire, showcasing their original works in this wonderful event.

All too often we hear cries of 'there's nothing to do here' and yet for nine days each September you can visit artists in their own creative spaces and discover the hidden talents that are right here on our own doorstep.

The vast majority of events are free and will give you a chance to see how it is done, ask questions about the processes and be inspired. You might buy a piece you love, find out about a workshop you have always wanted to try or just be tempted to get creative!

Showcase exhibitions at The Bield, Tibbermore and Pitlochry Festival Theatre are a way to see sample works from many of the open studios, all in one place.  

We thought we'd catch up with a few of the local artists to find out what they're doing over the last days of the event.

(Grab a booklet or visit the website for a key to routes and venues).

Issy Valentine  - Quarto Press, Venue 28 on the Lime Route

“I have made so many inspiring connections with visitors at venue 28 Quartopress in Coupar Angus. Looking forward to many more and sharing our pseudo memories through art & poetry”

Alison Robertson - Alison Price Artworks, Venue 72 on the Blue Route

“Part of my work this year has been with the Oor Wullie Bucket Trail, and it’s been fantastic speaking to people who have enjoyed taking part in the trail, and letting them see what goes into making the work”

June McEwan – Willow Works, Venue 87 on the Blue Route

“I’m really enjoying meeting so many people who have sought me out in the busy wee industrial estate where I do my willow sculptures.

"It's so interesting to meet and chat with local artists, see how they work and be able to ask questions"

A retired couple from Dumfriesshire who like to explore the country by visiting art events.

Gillian Skene – Gillian Skene Jewellery, Venue 49 on the Turquoise Route

“Lots of lovely visitors. Busy working to replenish stock and making more scones!”

Lorna Cameron – Tianes, Venue 64 on the Plum Route

“Visitors are saying 'inspirational and such variety'. I am saying 'love open studios and all the enthusiasm”

Caron Ironside - Caron Ironside Design, Venue 62 on the Plum Route

“This is my 3rd Perthshire Open Studios, each year there are new faces and friends who come along, always fun to meet everyone, chat about inspirations, process etc and also a great reason to develop some new designs to keep it interesting. It’s great for a nosey and get access into someone’s private creative space!”

Shonagh Moore – Stanley Artists, Venue 89 on the Blue Route

“One of eleven artists. A first timer and having a ball. So much creativity and lovely people of like minds creating a feel good factor that is inspirational”

Stanley Artists  are open from the 9^th-11^th of September

Katy Galbraith – The Bothy in the Garden, Venue 95 on the Green Route

“Annette Forsyth, Anna Olson and myself, three friends who have come together for the 5th year in the tranquil and serene setting of Katy's garden workshop in Crieff, where a visual treat of mosaic, ceramic art and photography awaits”

"I spent a wonderful afternoon at The Bothy looking at the work of the three artists. I would definitely recommend a visit as the work was inspiring, original and of extremely high quality"

Visitor from Edinburgh.

Lynsay Hay Artist and Illustrator -  Venue 90 on the Green Route, Culdeesland Studio, sharing with artist Arie Vardi.

“Already had a quite a few visitors today, hoping to meet some more lovely people. I'm off to paint more Thistles!”

Diana Law - Diana King  Jewellery,  Venue 80 on the Blue Route

“One of my visitors travelled down from Aberdeen, (herself, her daughter and friend) especially for POS stayed at holiday inn for a few days so she could experience what POS has to offer and has had a brilliant time visiting many makers...she said it’s especially an inspiration for the younger generation important to show the children how things are made and how people work,' she also said how very welcome she has been made to feel in different venues.

Eva Christie Hand Knitting -  Venue 73 on the Blue Route

“This is my first year participating in Perthshire Open Studios.
I've been talking with my visitors about the lost art of sock construction, my heirloom blanket and podcasting about my work as a knitwear designer. My venue is dog-friendly, so please feel free to bring your canine family members along.”

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Website | www.perthshireopenstudios.com