Open Studios - Opening Doors

'Opening Doors', the theme for 2007, refers not only to the fact that artists open up their studios, but also to the notion of widening cultural horizons and taking the opportunity to create new directios in life. This duality of purpose has always been an aim and reflects a serious approach to showcasing the visual arts in the region.

'Insight 2007', a huge exhibition in the gallery at New Greenham Arts from May 5th - June 2nd, will highlight the work of all the artists. There will also be satellite exhibitions at the new Arlington Arts Centre, the Corn Exchange, West Berkshire Commuity Hospital, the Three Swans Hotel in Hungerford, West Berkshire Museum and Newbury Central Library.

2007 marks the 20th Open Studios event. Although it is essentially a way of enlarging cultural experience, the idea of visitors engaging with materials and processes themselves has always been encouraged. Photographer Jo Andreae offers visitors the opportunity to create a montage in her studio. More formally, you can take part in free, hands-on workshops. What about 'Making the Sculpture of your Dreams' with Johannes von Stumm, or drawing inspired by the Egyptian treasures at Highclere Castle?

Schools always make a vital contribution to Open Studios. At Theale Green Community School, for instance, a display will include a range of visual journals documenting how the students develop their creative skills during the academic year. Artist photographers will be working with family groups on an education project called 'The Camera's Eye' at Sheepdrove Organic Farm with the Downs School and Curridge Primary School.

Copies of the Open Studios Directory of Artists are now available from New Greenham Arts, the Corn Exchange, Tourist Offices and main Libraries in Newbury and Basingstoke and from Waterstones in Newbury. Find out more about 'Insight 2007' on the exhibitions page, visit www.open-studios.org.uk or call Pat Eastop on 01635 817478.