25 local artists will be opening up their homes and studios on 7-8 July as part of the Open Studios initiative.
This is the first time Palmers Green and Southgate has taken part, says organiser Dan Maier of Extraordinary Design. “It’s a rare opportunity to meet the people behind the paintings, the designers behind the products and the hands that make the crafts – and visitors will be able to buy direct from many of the artists.”
The event is different from some others in that local artists will also be bringing art and design to the high street as well as showing work where its made. Local businesses, including Baskerville’s Tea shop, will be hosting artists’ and designers’ work in their windows – look out for the keyhole logo.
Among the artists taking part are
- Richard Crutchley, a photographer who has been exploring London architecture to discover a hidden alphabet in the city’s streets and buildings (at Baskervilles)
- leatherworker Melissa Simpson, who makes functional and stylish bags, briefcases, belts and accessories in eye catching colours (exhibiting at Extraordinary Design 311 Chase Road Southgate)
- stained glass artist Cheryl Powling (no website, but email shvuntz@gmail.com), who will be giving demonstrations on cutting glass and making up panels (73 The Mall)
- ceramicist and lino printer Anne Hutchings and traditional cabinet maker Ralph Hutchings (23 Broomfield Avenue) (no website, email pottianni@googlemail.com)
- award winning portrait painter Helen Masacz (38 St Georges Road)
- and Dan Maier herself. Dan’s company Extraordinary Design specialises in bespoke decorative pieces for window displays, advertising, theatre and interiors and has undertaken major commissions for St Pancras Hotel, the Old Vic and the Royal Shakespeare company, among others.
Though the opening times are 11-6pm, some venues may vary, so please check details before setting out. To download the Open Studios & Art Trail Southgate & Palmers Green Brochure, visit http://www.openstudios.uk.com/downloads/
