Touring the Open Studios (PLUS PHOTO OF FAITH WINTER + SAOS LOGO)

The Guildford artists participating in Surrey Artists Open Studios this June had to work even harder this year.  Prior to officially opening their studios, they were besieged by a minibus full of VIPs!  The great and good of Guildford and Waverley were taken on an exhausting guided tour around seven studios to view the work of fourteen artists.

The tour took in studios filled with paintings, sculpture, calligraphy, glass works, stone carving, photography and whilst being diverse in style, content and materials, the works remained constant in terms of high quality.

Among the talks, demonstrations and cakes (they did Guildford proud) provided by the artists, the visitors were allowed a glimpse at some work-in-progress of sculptor Faith Winter.  Alongside her beautiful and sensitive sculptures it was fascinating to see the development of work since the fifties and the mixture of high profile commissions and subjects that were of particular interest to her.

Every artist was very open to discussing their work; from the inspiration behind particular pieces to different techniques used and this level of interaction is one of the particular features of Open Studios.  Another feature is the diversity of studio spaces   From conventional studios and barns to conservatories and garages, it really is a unique opportunity to see the arts and artists of Surrey in a working context.

The tour was a pilot project to help raise the profile and promote Surrey Artists Open Studios and many of those on the tour had never visited the event before.  Everyone was unanimous in voicing their enjoyment of the day and some even went away with an original artwork under their arm.

For more information on Surrey Artists Open Studios contact

Alison Clarke on 01483 757258 or email sca[email protected]