Devon artists prepare to open studio doors for county-wide creative celebration

Taking place from 12 to 20 September, the annual event will see artists, makers and craftspeople throw open their studio doors for nine days of free exhibitions, demonstrations, workshops and talks, allowing visitors to explore the creative process and meet the people behind the work.

Art on display will span a wide range of disciplines, including painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery, glasswork and textiles, with participants ranging from emerging artists to established professionals.

Five emerging artists have also been awarded bursaries to support their participation in this year's event.

Among them is Erica Luke of Plymouth, whose colourful paintings and gel-plate prints are inspired by gardens, green spaces and the relationship between people and the natural environment. During the event she will share sketchbooks, work in progress and experimental pieces with visitors.

Crediton's Frances Parkinson creates mixed-media works combining painting, printmaking and textured surfaces. Following a late diagnosis of autism and ADHD, her practice has evolved to explore how creativity can support thinking and wellbeing, drawing inspiration from the landscapes of Devon and Cornwall.

Ashburton-based craft maker and carpenter Ollie Finn, who works under the name SKWONK, transforms reclaimed skateboards, plywood and locally sourced timber into functional objects and furniture using the traditional Japanese marquetry technique of Yosegi.

Printmaker Sarah Burt, from Totnes, creates detailed drypoint prints inspired by architecture and overlooked corners of the landscape using recycled Tetrapak cartons, while Exmouth artist Izzy Webber will showcase oil paintings exploring portraiture, interiors and the effects of natural light.

The event will also highlight a number of established artists from across Devon.

In Appledore, Danni Bradford specialises in the rare craft of verre-églomisé – reverse glass gilding – which has been classified by Heritage Crafts as Critically Endangered on its Red List. Her intricate wildlife-inspired pieces combine hand painting with precious metal leaf.

North Devon artist Bobby Magee, based in Croyde, will display paintings inspired by the dramatic coastline and sunsets that first prompted her to take up oil painting after moving to the village.

Buckfastleigh artist Alasdair Gordon is inviting visitors to experience a camera obscura installation while exploring traditional photographic techniques including cyanotypes, pinhole photography and analogue film.

In Exeter, the Preston Street Artists collective will showcase an eclectic mix of portraiture, photography, expressionism and abstract art from six artists, while printmaker Katy Jackson will present atmospheric etchings inspired by changing light and birds within the landscape.

Devon Open Studios President Kate Farmery said: "We're looking forward to showing local people and visitors the huge range of creative talent Devon has to offer.

"Devon Open Studios offers a fantastic opportunity to meet artists working in their studios in some of Devon's beautiful locations. Visitors will be able to see exhibitions, watch demonstrations, and take part in a range of activities. Of course, there's also the opportunity to buy, and it's much more satisfying to purchase a piece of art when you've met the artist, seen them working and heard about their inspiration."

Devon Open Studios has become one of the county's largest annual arts events since it was established by the Devon Artist Network. Each year it encourages the public to explore artists' studios and creative spaces that are not normally open, while helping artists connect directly with collectors, local communities and visitors.

A printed guide listing all participating venues is available from libraries, community venues and tourist information centres across Devon, with full details also available online.