ARTISTS in and around Bridport and Beaminster are preparing for the first Open Studios event to be held in November.
The initiative – which runs from November 14 -22 – has been timed to coincide with the Bridport Literary Festival, the countertext09 exhibition and events, and (whisper it) the approach of Christmas.
The move to engage the public in appreciating and buying art is also meant to form part of the campaign against the proposed redevelopment of the South West Quadrant in Bridport.
Half of the 28 artists taking part in the Open Studios event are from St Michael’s Studios on the St Michael’s Trading Estate in the South West Quadrant.
“We would,” says a collective statement from artists involved, “appreciate your support for the historic St Michael’s Trading Estate which is under threat from an unpopular redevelopment.
“The trading estate is home to a vibrant community of light industry, traditional crafts, antiques and an eclectic mix of businesses. It is dearly loved as the cultural heart of Bridport.”
West Dorset District Council, one of the partners involved in the possible reshaping of the SW Quadrant, insists that its plans for new homes, and fresh commercial opportunities, are sensitive and well-supported.
Artists taking part in Open Studios are:
- At St Michael’s Studios – Kit Glaisyer, Caroline Ireland, David Brooke, Philomena Harmsworth, Prue Heward-Morgan, Paul Richmond-Derby, John Rabbetts, Marion Taylor, Sally Davies, Jemma Thompson, Alessandro Botto, Ian Dunn, Marion Irons
- In and around Bridport – Wendy Poole, Colin Granger, John Stevens, Antony Dover
- Mangerton – Michael Chappell
- Powerstock – David Risk Kennard
- Beaminster – Brian Cocks, Roy Barrett, Betty Paulson
- Chideock – Annalisa Renee
- Fishponds – Greta Berlin
- Marshwood – RL Hollands
- Abbotsbury – Mary-Clare Buckle, Debbie Veitch, John Meaker
Opening times are normally 10am-5pm, but may vary. Some artists are also not open every day. For more details, look out for the leaflets being distributed around West Dorset.
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