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Applications now open for Norfolk Open Studios celebrating 30th anniversary this summer




Applications are now open for artists, makers and creators to take part in 2025’s Norfolk Open Studios.

This year, the award-winning event will celebrate the 30th anniversary of collaborating with artists by showcasing their work in a new slot, during peak summertime in July.

Now, artists are invited to apply to take part in the 2025 outing which will take place between July 12 and 27.

Artist Caroline Chouler-Tissier. Credit: Lily Monsey
Artist Caroline Chouler-Tissier. Credit: Lily Monsey

For 16 days each year, Norfolk Open Studios celebrates the creativity, talent, and achievements of the county’s artists, creators, and makers.

Established as one of the largest and most successful open studio schemes in the country, the free event offers the opportunity for creatives to open their doors to the public to exhibit, sell and talk about their work.

It also gives visitors the opportunity to see new art, take part in events, meet artists, and buy original artworks directly from their creators.

Artist Lesley Munro. Credit: Luke Witcomb
Artist Lesley Munro. Credit: Luke Witcomb

Over the course of three decades, Norfolk Open Studios has shone a spotlight on thousands of the county’s artists.

Artists at all stages of their careers are invited to take part – from school and college students through to emerging talent and established professionals.

Annually, around 250 artists take part across more than 150 locations, from studios and garages to spare rooms and garden rooms, community spaces and schools – sharing their creative processes along the way.

Artist Mary Lowden. Credit: Luke Witcomb
Artist Mary Lowden. Credit: Luke Witcomb

Visitors will find painters, ceramicists, printmakers, woodworkers, sculptors, textile artists, jewellers, photographers, furniture makers, metal workers and lots more throughout the varied landscapes of Norfolk.

Daniel Randall-Dawson, Norfolk Open Studios producer, said: “We are excited to be launching our call out to artists and to announce new summer dates for 2025.

“We have been celebrating our county’s artists for 30 years and it continues to be a great way for artists, makers and creators to meet and talk with the public about their work, to feel part of a local, creative community, and to sell directly to an interested arts audience.

Artist Hazel in the Art Barn at Barrington Farm. Credit: Barrington Farm
Artist Hazel in the Art Barn at Barrington Farm. Credit: Barrington Farm

“It is an exciting time when preparations begin and we’re looking forward to hearing from everyone who would like to take part.”

Norfolk Open Studios welcomes applications from all artists, groups of artists and schools. People wishing to take part can apply online or download an application form from the scheme’s website.

Sculptor Andy Jarrett, who has been taking part in Norfolk Open Studios for a number of years, said: “It is the highlight of my year, I love opening up my studio and showing people my work directly, it’s so rewarding and nourishing, there’s nothing like it.

Artist Andy Jarrett. Credit: Luke Witcomb
Artist Andy Jarrett. Credit: Luke Witcomb

“I also sell lots of sculptures during Open Studios, so it’s very important to me financially. I have built up many clients who regularly buy work and choose to visit during the event, so I'm very excited about it.

“I would highly recommend to any practising artist to get involved and become part of this wonderful celebration of local art and artists.”

Ceramicist Caroline Chouler-Tissier, who is taking part in Norfolk Open Studios for the third time, said: “I have jumped at the chance to take part in the 2025 event. Being involved in Norfolk Open Studio is always a great way to meet new people interested in experiencing the different ways artists express creativity.

Artist Ben Alden. Credit: Jo Hayes
Artist Ben Alden. Credit: Jo Hayes

“This July will be a special opportunity and fresh occasion to celebrate new work, give people a taste of my creative workshops and welcome back familiar faces. I can’t wait.”

Norfolk Open Studios attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year, who flock to studios across the county to meet the artists.

One visitor to the last Open Studios event said: “It was wonderful to be able to meet the artists and understand their art, their equipment and some of the history about how their art has evolved. Without this opportunity, I doubt I would have even heard of some of these local artists.”

Artists taking part will receive a profile and artwork image in the Norfolk Open Studios brochure, a website listing, as well as posters and postcards to publicise their involvement.

They will have the chance to run, or be part of, an artist art trail, workshop or event from their studios.

Applications are now open and will close on Sunday, February 23.

For more information or to apply, visit www.norfolkstudios.org.uk.

Alternatively, email openstudios@nnfestival.org.uk or call 01603 877762.



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