A RECORD number of attendees enjoyed Worcestershire’s largest celebration of creativity this year as the county’s Open Studios Art Week helped raise around £5,000 for good causes on its triumphant return.
The event returned in late August after a year hiatus and post event surveys have demonstrated increased footfall, improved takings and higher-than-ever ratings of visitor satisfaction.
Taking place from August 19 to 25, 167 artists and makers adopted an open door policy at their studios and creative spaces to welcome a record number of visitors, estimated at between 15,000 and 18,000 – an increased footfall of 32 per cent compared to 2023.
Visitors described the experience as ‘inspiring’, ‘welcoming’, and ‘friendly’, with many commenting on the diversity of work on show and the unique opportunity it provided to talk directly with artists and makers.
“We have been thrilled by the response this year and were especially delighted to discover almost half of those who visited were new to the event,” said co-organiser, Gemma Griffiths.
A total of 78 per cent of visitors said meeting artists was important to them and 99.7 per cent said they would recommend the event to friends and family.
Artists and makers taking part reported how much they enjoyed meeting the public to discuss their work. Artwork sales also saw a 50 per cent increase compared to the 2023 event.
Participants reported too that sales opportunities have arisen since the event, as well as seeing an uptake in workshop bookings and commissions
Many participants praised the organisation of the event, rating it 9.2 out of 10, and spoke of how the week had helped to raise their profile locally and beyond.
One maker said: “The event was well-organised, inspiring, and gave me the chance to connect with both new buyers and fellow creatives.”
Many of the artists and makers who take part use it as an opportunity to collect money for charity and this year some £5,000 was raised for a diverse range of local good causes.
Behind the scenes, Worcestershire Open Studios is organised entirely by volunteers who give their time to manage finances, design, communications, the website, social media, signage and overall event organisation.
Their work ensures that 26,000 printed guides are produced and distributed across the county, alongside manning a website that acts as a hub for workshops, courses and the Artist and Maker Directory where creatives can display their work year-round.
The event enjoys the financial support of five key sponsors – Elmslie House Malvern, Worcester Royal Porcelain Works, Bevere Gallery, Col Cards and the Arts Societies of Worcester, Malvern and Pershore and Evesham.
It also has the backing of a number of local art-based businesses which offer discounted goods and services to members.
“It simply wouldn’t be possible for us to do it without them and we are extremely grateful for their support,” said Gemma Griffiths
Looking ahead, the team is already planning for next year. Worcestershire Open Studios 2026 will take place from August 22 to 31.
Those interested in taking part next year can visit www.worcestershireopenstudios.org to sign up.
