9/10 & 16/17 Jun: Secret Spaces and Hidden Gems: North Yorkshire Open Studios 2012

NYOS

Secret Spaces and Hidden Gems: North Yorkshire Open Studios 2012

Late Harvest - Colin Smithson - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Late Harvest - Colin Smithson - photograph courtesy of NYOS

Venue: Artists’ studios throughout North Yorkshire – FREE entry

For two weekends in June artists throughout North Yorkshire will open their studios to the public. It’s a great opportunity to unearth art in some unique and stunning places, from farmyard studios and the blacksmith’s forge, to stone cottages and suburban sitting rooms at the 2012 North Yorkshire Open Studios.

Artist-blacksmith Annabelle Bradley at work in her forge - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Artist-blacksmith Annabelle Bradley at work in her forge - photograph courtesy of NYOS

The inspiration of North Yorkshire’s spectacular landscape, from the fabulous Yorkshire Dales to the dramatic coastline, can be traced through the art of over 130 artists. It’s a chance to uncover hidden gems and to purchase paintings, furniture, contemporary crafts, jewellery, sculptures and prints directly from the creator.

Heather Burning by Debbie Loane - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Heather Burning by Debbie Loane - photograph courtesy of NYOS

Debbie Loane’s art is created with mixed media (as seen above), and her pieces are inspired by the North York Moors landscape, particularly the views around ‘Hambleton Street’, an historic road visible from her studio on a farm close to Easingwold. Whilst Andrew Kay’s striking sculptures are featured at Austwick Hall amidst the spectacular backdrop of the rolling Yorkshire Dales hills.

Watchful Stag - by Andrew Kay - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Watchful Stag - by Andrew Kay - photograph courtesy of NYOS

Emerson Mayes, whose art is displayed at numerous galleries in London, resides in Nidderdale and his artwork is inspired by the fabulous local landscape and its varied wildlife, all found within a few miles of his home.

Approaching the Abbey, November by Emerson Mayes - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Approaching the Abbey, November by Emerson Mayes - photograph courtesy of NYOS

The great fun of the two weekends is tracking down the varied artists’ studios (with the help of the very useful guidebook). Lots of information about all the artists are available here whilst a studio guidebook (free) can be acquired through the organisers, Art Connections, on 01756 748 529 or info@art-connections.org.uk

Jewellery by Moxon & Simm - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Jewellery by Moxon & Simm - photograph courtesy of NYOS

In addition to the wealth of studios to go to see, there is also a fantastic events programme, including workshops, hidden tea parties and captivating artists’ installations throughout a number of North Yorkshire heritage sites.  A preview exhibition – ‘Secret Spaces, Hidden Gems’ – which will feature the work of artists who are taking part in the Open Studios, will be held in the newly restored Edwardian Ambulatory Arcade at Harrogate’s Royal Hall from 31 May to 17 June.

Violet Night by Richard Snowden - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Violet Night by Richard Snowden - photograph courtesy of NYOS

The Open Studios event takes place on 9 & 10 June and 16 & 17 June, between 10.30 and 5.30.

Artist Bren Head at Ravenscar - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Artist Bren Head at Ravenscar - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Small Tea Pot by Charlotte Morrison - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Small Tea Pot by Charlotte Morrison - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Attentive Tawny by Emerson Mayes - photograph courtesy of NYOS
Attentive Tawny by Emerson Mayes - photograph courtesy of NYOS

For anyone looking for accommodation in the area, please check out the hotels, B&Bs and cottages on Hello Yorkshire.