My first Open Studio in Hebden Bridge was in my house. It felt scary opening it up to the public. It was a trek for them too; the furthest end of Market Street, through a secret garden courtyard and up some stairs (passing my cat who did not like guests). But people visited and they were lovely! My neighbour's little daughter did her own Open Studios in the garden and made a killing on her works of art.
Next time I was still at that end of Market Street in my neighbour's beautifulshop; Hat Therapy. Some of the people that visited and bought my work there are still my customers now, but more than that they are my friends.
Then onto the golden era; Burlees House. I felt so very grateful to have a studio that was sunshine filled with birds and blossom outside my window and the most inspiring creatives; Sarah Mason Photography and Hannah Nunn just down the corridor. I had many, many lovely Open studios there.
After the studio fire there I couldn't imagine having another space so perfect, but I have managed to make a place that I feel truly at home in. It goes without saying that I could not have picked myself back up without the amazing community and support in Hebden Bridge and beyond.
So Open Studios time has come round again; it is the 7th, 8th and 9th of July. I am really looking forward to welcoming you here. I will have a collection of original paintings for sale (which is pretty rare for me, but I have been carving out time to paint on self-led pieces). As well as a BIG screen print sale, greetings cards, cushions, landscape prints, notebooks and the like!
It feels like quite a moment! I have put lots of work into the space and it feels very me.
I really hope to see you there.
All the details are here. x
