Shrewsbury artists will be throwing open their doors to the public for the 12th annual Open Studios event.

Art lovers across the county and beyond are invited to take a rare glimpse behind the scenes and witness first-hand the inspiration and motivation behind some of Shrewsbury’s finest artists.

The Open Studios event is a celebration of visual art which runs over two weekends, from July 7-8 and July 14-15, between 11am until 5pm daily.

More than 30 artists will be opening up their homes and studios to display a variety of art and craft disciplines over the two weekends. Works of art will also be available to purchase directly from the creators.

The scheme offers visitors the chance to see artists at work, discuss their techniques and find out about the inspiration behind their work.

There will be a number of demonstrations taking place at several locations over the two weekends including using a pole lathe, brick clay carving, printmaking, weaving, enamelling, illustration and painting.

A printed leaflet with map showing studio locations and demonstrations is available from Shrewsbury Tourist Information Centre at Rowley’s House and Shirehall.

Alternatively, an online brochure is available to download at www.issuu.com/shrewsburyopenstudios

Artist Heather Prescott said: “The Shrewsbury Open Studios event provides a rare opportunity for people to come and meet the artists and talk to them about their work and buy directly from the makers.

"This year we have made it easier than ever before to meet some of the artists by bringing those from further out of town together in a central location to avoid people having to travel to a single venue. You can even plan your studio trail by bicycle by visiting www.cycleshrewsbury.co.uk so it really is easy to enjoy all there is on offer.”

Other associated exhibitions will be open over the course of the two weekends and can be seen at the Silverton Hotel in Frankwell (Richard Hammerton) Beyond the Purple Door at Shrewsbury Market Hall (Pat Jones) and at the Bear Steps (The Quintessential Art Group).

Three artists, Pip Bailey, Caroline Bucknell and Bev Horsley will also be showcasing their work at Shrewsbury Coffee House. 

For more information log on to www.facebook.com/shrewsburyopenstudios.