A total of 167 artists and makers across 105 venues are participating in the 10th anniversary Worcestershire Open Studios Art Week, making it the largest ever.
Running until Monday, August 25, the event received positive feedback from visitors who praised the wide variety of artworks on display and the ease of using the digital and printed guides.
Visitor Clare Smout, from Ludlow, said: “Open Studios provides a fabulous opportunity to see an interesting range of artists’ work enhanced by the chance to discuss the pieces with their creators.”
Liz Butler, who visited with her friend Ingram Pinn, said: “We drove from London eager for a day away in the green of Worcestershire.
“Imagine our delight at the far end of the M40 when we discovered not only lush countryside but the imaginative and skilled work of painters in varied styles to recreate the world they find around them.”
Painter Debbie Macklin from Welland said: “It made me appreciate that art really does bring people together and is a vector for exploring so many issues.”
Steve Cooper, a blacksmith and sculptor from Pershore who is taking part for the first time, said: “I think its quite unusual for people to be able to see a working forge in action in the middle of a town.
“I’ve had a steady stream of visitors and they have all seemed to enjoy seeing my work and my garden. It’s all really relaxed and I’m very glad I’ve done it.”
In addition to showing their work, some creators are offering workshops, talks, and hands-on sessions.
Visitors can easily plan their visits using an interactive online map on the website and there’s also a chance to win £250 to spend on artwork by completing a short visitor feedback survey.
Event co-organiser Anna Cumming said: “Everyone who loves art, loves to talk about it and we artists and makers are a friendly lot and are genuinely keen to meet our visitors.
“Entry is completely free so it’s a great day out in some wonderful countryside.”
