Harborough Artist's Cluster Open Studios

An recent open studios event in Market Harborough sparked much excitement and anticipation with local artists and buyers alike.

This annual event, usually held later in the year, is a unique opportunity to see talented local artists in the Harborough Artist's Cluster, exhibiting their latest work.

There were 18 artists involved: Janet Alderson-Smith, Maggie Barlow, Roger & Daniele Bradley, Derek Brittan, Kay Carpenter, Maxine Dodd, Kelly Gardner, Mark Hancock, Barbara Hatton, Marion Holden, Mikki Longley, Greta Paradine-Palmer, Dave Rolls, Brian Taylor, Lisa Timmerman, Emily Twomlow and Andrew Wynne plus an exhibition by the Embroiderers’ Guild.

 Armed with a leaflet listing the artists, addresses and a simple map, we chose a selection to visit.

The idyllic setting of the ‘The Chestnuts’, Foxton housed an exhibition by Lisa Timmerman. Lisa uses vibrant colours to create original oil and acrylic paintings of flowers. Her gallery was buzzing and several pieces were purchased while we were there.

 Across the swing bridge and into Great Bowden bought us to Kay Carpenter, who has been part of the group since 2009.  Kay exhibited her colourful watercolours and pastels, in her airy conservatory.

Still in Great Bowden, Pippins Studio is tucked away in the corner of a cul-de-sac. Here we saw two contrasting artists - Maxine Dodd and Derek Brittan. Maxine exhibited an energetic selection of ‘fast-moving sports subjects in watercolour’, while Derek had an array of ‘contemporary block-colour works.’

Onwards to ‘The Limes’ in pretty Clipston where we saw paintings by Janet Alderton-Smith and Barbara Hutton. Janet is an award-winning artist who specialises in line-drawing in bright acrylic ink, while Barbara creates ‘semi-abstract paintings in oil and acrylic.’

We finally visited Emily Twomlow in Market Harborough who inspired by nature, skillfully makes bespoke, hand-tufted rugs using 100% British wool.

With a wide selection of styles and prices, the Open Studio initiative is a great way to access local art in your area, while enjoying the beautiful Leicestershire countryside.

Visit http://www.harboroughartists.co.uk/ for more information.