FeedbackSpotlight on Open Studios
Helfa Gelf / Art Trail
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'Laura Capper, master upholsterer and upcycled furniture designer'. Photo: Simon Proffitt, Greenlanddesign
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'Ann Catrin Evans, metalworker'. Photo: Simon Proffitt, Greenlanddesign
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'Jenny Murray ceramics'. Photo: Simon Proffitt, Greenlanddesign
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'Mandy Coates, basket weaver'. Photo: Simon Proffitt, Greenlanddesign
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays throughout September
Artists from Gwynedd, Conwy, Flintshire, Denbighshire and Wrexham open their studio doors as part of North Wales’ biggest annual art event.
www.helfagelf.co.uk
Over 300 artists are taking part in Helfa Gelf / ArtTrail, which opens Friday 7 September 2012.
New funding from project supporters has given artists access to professional development workshops and support, and also helped with promotion of the event. Helfa Gelf has received funding through the Rural Development Plan for Wales 2007-2013, which is funded by the Welsh Government and the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development, and this has enabled eleven free taster sessions as well as free minibus tours around selected studios in each county.
‘The Art Trail Map’, an online interactive guide includes information on studio locations, artist profiles, a gallery of images, studio directions, satellite map, access information and opening times. A free printed guide is also available featuring all the artists - a copy can be picked up from local libraries, schools, tourist information centres, hotels, shops, galleries and Helfa Gelf Information Points.
The unique studio spaces are located in every kind of venue, from purpose-built studios and galleries to garden sheds and back rooms, in wild countryside and busy towns. Plus there are great galleries and other innovative arts projects taking place alongside the open studios. The full list of artists and galleries includes Laura Capper who re-designs and upcycles furniture using unique and hand-crafted fabrics, basketmaker Mandy Coates who uses home grown willow and hedgerow materials in her traditional and contemporary baskets, and metalworker Ann Catrin Evans who works with drawing, installation, jewellery, metalwork, mixed media, sculpture.
“There is a huge range of art forms on offer, from the traditional to the contemporary”, says Sabine Cockrill, project coordinator. “We feel the event showcases the diversity and talent in the region. There really is something for everyone!”
Helfa Gelf /Art Trail takes place in Gwynedd, Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham Counties, 7-9 September, 14-16 September, 21-23 September, 28-30 September.
Studios are open from 11am -5pm
First published: a-n.co.uk August 2012
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