June 2014 sees the seventh year of Harrow Open Studios, which showcases local talent, and its free!
More than 2,000 visitors attended at least one open studio last year. The work of painters, printmakers, sculptors, ceramicists, woodturners, glass artists and jewellers can be perused at leisure. Visitors to Open Studios are welcome to ask questions on techniques and processes, make a purchase or arrange a commission.
Individual artists have different opening days and times, so be sure to check on the site and to follow us on Facebook and Twitter. Particular thanks go to all the businesses and private individuals who have sponsored this year’s programme, and note that new sponsors are always welcome!
Ann Burnham has been a successful designer in publishing, but focuses now on printmaking. Working from her garden studio in Pinner, her prints are inspired by a fascination with the textures and patterns found in both the natural and man-made landscape around us. She is exhibiting with Jane Pomiankowski, a jeweller who uses traditional silversmithing and textile techniques applied to own unique designs.
Ceramic sculptures by Natalie Tobert are influenced by her experience of archaeological excavations in Africa and the Near East, and during fieldwork research in India. She also produces glass dishes and jewellery. Ceramicist Christine Norris produces spherical planters and vases with detailed images of plants. Sculpted lizards, frogs, plants and fish also appear in much of her work.
Thai artist Dow Pichaiwatkomol took up art as a hobby after a serious accident ten years ago. In 2005 ‘I started to walk with a stick and found the confidence to rejoin the classes at the Harrow Art Centre’ she says. She paints animals, landscapes, flowers and figurative work, including life drawing at her studio in North Harrow. “My work shows idealised scenes so that when people look at them they think, ‘I would like to be there’”.
From the Northwood-based artistic Pelham family – with three members exhibiting, to the cluster of five artists – painters, a ceramicist, a jeweller and a wood turner – exhibiting in West Drive, Harrow Weald, there is plenty of variety to engage visitors. The open studios are free and refreshments are usually available.
