Artists sought for showcase

Artists from across Staffordshire will get the chance to showcase their work to thousands of art lovers during an "open studios" event later this year.

Organisers want more artists to take part in Staffordshire Open Studios 2007. Now in its sixth year, the annual event involves up-and-coming artists throwing open the doors of their studios to the public.

There are 43 artists signed up, but more are needed to take part. The event is on the weekends of September 15-16 and September 22-23.

Stafford artist and scheme spokesman Lisa Henderson said: "Wouldn't it be absolutely amazing if Vincent van Gogh were to sidle up to you for a chat as you were looking at his Sunflowers with the paint still wet? What better insight could you possibly have into the whys and wherefores behind his work?

"You could have just that sort of insight by visiting any, or even all, of the Staffordshire artists who will be opening their studios as part of this event.

"Staffordshire Open Studios attracted more than 700 studio visits last year.

"And this year, as previously, there will be an inaugural exhibition of selected works at Lichfield Cathedral from August 15 to September 2. Based on last year's figures, more than 2,500 people will see the show."

She said that almost half the artists due to exhibit and open workshops this year were new to the scheme, and organisers were keen to find more to take part.

"It offers an opportunity for artists to have their work seen and appreciated by the wider public," she said.

The scheme is run by the artists themselves, with county council support.

A free guide at libraries, tourist information centres and galleries lists numerous Staffordshire-based arts events taking place throughout the coming year.

Information can be downloaded from www.stafford shireopenstudios.org