62 | NEOS
BETTER THAN EVER NEOS IS BACK! YES, NORTH EAST OPEN STUDIOS IS BACK AND THIS YEAR’S EVENT PROMISES TO BE BETTER THAN EVER.
A
fter last year’s scaled down event, this year offers the chance to meet and buy from over 250 of the region’s most talented artists, craftspeople and makers. North East Open Studios runs from September 11 to 19th. Individual venues have different opening times and there are so many artists and makers taking part that it’s best to get a copy of the NEOS guide, choose your must-sees and plan a route. The distinctive yellow book is available at libraries, galleries and shops and is a great resource throughout the year. You can also find out who’s taking part at northeastopenstudios.co.uk and
confirm opening times before setting out. A download of the book, as well as maps and local trails, is also available from the site. Some things are better done in person and buying art and design is definitely one of them. It’s so much easier to find pieces you love when you see them in real life and chat to the person who made them. Colours spring to life in paintings, illustrations, photography and stained glass works, the tactile qualities of textiles, ceramics, furniture, wood and sculptures need to be experienced and the intricate work that goes into the creation of jewellery, silversmithing or heritage crafts benefits from close examination. North East Open Studios offers the chance to meet with every kind of artist, designer and maker based in the area, to explore their studios and
