Open North studios set to open this weekend

Aileen Calarke will appear at North Fife's Open Studio.

Studios across the region will open tomorrow (Saturday) to allow visitors to explore a world of creativity with as many as 66 artists, designers and makers showcasing their talents.

The event appeals to all interests whether it is in painting, ceramics, jewellery, wood or metalwork, glass, textiles or photography – providing a fascinating insight into the often quirky workspaces and expert methods of a diverse range of participants from new graduates to well-known artists.

Several of this year’s participants are multi award winning including Derek Robertson who, in 2015 alone, was winner of the International Exhibit National Watercolour Society combined award, USA; selected, small painting exchange, Shenzen, watercolour biennial, China; Purchase award, Woodson Art Museum International Birds In Art exhibition, USA; a finalist in the Golden Turtle Awards, Moscow, Russia and a finalist for the David Shephard Wildlife Artist of the Year awards, London.

Artist Derek Robertson from Aberdeen with one of his paintings 'The Salmon Pool'.

He has also written a new book called “Living Landscapes” which was published late last year.

Craft and Design Maker of the Year 2015 Moyra Stewart has a growing national reputation for the stunning large ceramic vessels she makes using the demanding technique of Naked Raku.

She draws her inspiration from Lewisian Gneiss rock strata found on the coast and islands of North West Scotland where she will be returning later in the year to continue her research after winning the An Talla Solais Residency Award at this year’s Royal Scottish Academy’s Open Exhibition in Edinburgh.

Free, full colour brochures with maps and details are available from a variety of outlets around the country.

Running until Monday, May 9 the studios will be open from 10am to 6pm.