ART lovers in Inverclyde are being invited to cross the water to Cowal this weekend as the area's artists and craft-makers open up their studios to the public.
The Cowal Open Studios event, now a well-established fixture in the calendar, attracts hundreds of people interested in witnessing the creativity on offer in what is an inspiring and stunning part of the world.
Spread across five routes - north, south, east, west and central - more than 40 artists and makers will be taking part in this year’s weekend.
Jenny Phillips from Cowal Open Studios commented: “It’s that time of the year again when our vibrant network of artists have the chance to showcase their creations, processes and work environments with the west and north routes, for example, having plenty to offer art lovers.
“Whilst the majority of the artists and makers taking part in this year’s weekend are based around Dunoon, Innellan and the shore villages, there is a lot to be gained by going off the beaten track and exploring our west and north routes.
“Painters Marie Briggs and Monya Wren will be setting up their studios in the beautiful Kilfinan forest and will be welcoming everyone to the Kilfinan Forest Centre where visitors will be able to enjoy artworks inspired by the nature around them.
“Visitors can make a day of it and can carry on round the coast to the atmospheric Lachlan Castle and on through Glenbranter to Strachur where they will find two more artists.
“Printmaker Sheila Rodger will be in her studio on the edge of Loch Fyne together with painter Jules Cadie who is based at Quarry Cottage, Glensuain. The road then takes you on to Cairndow and Kilmorich Schoolhouse where mixed media artist Louise Day will be hosting visitors in her studio.
“Louise’s work is inspired by the natural forms of coast, woodland and garden then perhaps round the day off with a cuppa at the Tree Shop.
“It is always very encouraging to see so many people coming from ‘across the watter’ attend alongside many local residents and there’s a bonus this year with the Doors Open Days scheme seeing local landmarks such as Castle House Museum and Historic Kilmun open their doors to the public free of charge.
“There is such a wide range of art and mediums on display. There really is something for everyone from Strachur to Ardentinny to Toward and it is encouraging to see so many artists joining together to share a venue.
“To promote this year’s event we’ve been very active on social media with our very own Anne-Marie Pietersz-Powell putting out some great content. There’s also four short videos that have been produced profiling some of the artists.
“There’s a number of debutants taking part this year including Cowal Camera Club who will be opening up their Castle Street venue to display their photography. Holy Trinity Church, tucked in the woods at the top end of Kilbride Road in Dunoon, is a new venue this year hosting four artists with teas and cakes available.
“Dunoon’s Burgh Hall is also hosting a taster event that runs until October 6th with a number of our members showcasing their creativity alongside three guest artists from beyond the peninsula.
“We have an interactive map on our website in which people can plot their route around the open studios and we are all looking forward to welcoming folk into our studios,” concluded Jenny.
Michaela and Chris Goan have been taking part in the event for almost 10 years, with their Seatree Argyll workshop in Innellan showcasing a unique fusion of pottery and poetry.
Michaela commented: “We always enjoy Cowal Open Studios weekend! It’s a perfect opportunity to meet the public and talk about the methods and approaches we use.”
Nearby Susan Turmeau, a jewellery creator who makes exquisite and bespoke items, will, once again, be partnering up with artist Morvern Lusk.
“We look forward to welcoming folks to our ‘sitooterie’ for a cuppa and a chat. Here’s hoping for blue skies!” said Susan.
On the other side of Holy Loch Tracey Exton, based in Blairmore, will be taking part for the first time.
Tracey said “My works are influenced by the ever changing light, water and skies around us and it will be fantastic to be involved!"
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