Swindon Open Studios (SOS) marks its 20th anniversary this year with the biggest event in its history planned, featuring 130 artists and craftspeople across 56 venues in Swindon and surrounding areas.
This year’s SOS, a free community-based art event, will be held during the last two weekends in September, showcasing an eclectic mix of art forms including oil paintings, acrylics, watercolours, ceramics, stained glass, jewellery, mosaics, digital art, and even life-size film props.
SOS began modestly, with a few artists inviting family and friends. By 2004, fifty-three artists were participating. Since then, the event has more than doubled, evolving into a vibrant and supportive arts community. It debunks the myth that Swindon is a “cultural desert” by celebrating creativity and inclusivity, welcoming amateur artists alongside full-time professionals.
The event benefits everyone involved. Visitors have the opportunity to view a myriad of beautiful creations, while artists can interact with their audience and receive valuable feedback. The behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process, including the muck and mess, may even inspire visitors to take up a new hobby. The back catalogue of work reveals the development of themes over time, and creatives share the stories behind specific pieces. Some venues will offer “Have a go” sessions, such as pottery classes or stained glass cutting. (Please check online for booking and payment details in advance).
Sheryll Fox of the SOS committee stated, “Swindon Open Studios is for everyone. It’s really accessible, plus you get to meet the artists and see where the magic happens.”
This year’s event features an incredible variety of arts and crafts on display in 20 central Swindon venues, including Artsite with 21 artists and PodPad with 19 artists. New College will host an end-of-year show displaying students’ work in Art & Design, Media Make-up, and Photography. Other notable venues include Bare Glazed Pottery, Eastcott Studios, and MAMS Gallery, along with individual artists such as Sue Barnes, Victoria Carter, David Bent, Lisa Lowe, Tim Carroll, Steve Sewell, Andi Theokle, Ken White, Sholeh Jafari, Patrick Taylor, Alex Crump, Helen Savin, Carmen B Norris, Tracey Baker-Stewart, Sheena Dickens, and Deepti Arora. For venue details, visit the SOS website.
Several homes, studios, and exhibition spaces will offer light refreshments and garden spaces, making it a delightful day out. Detailed information on locations, disabled access, and a full catalogue of all 130 participating individuals and art groups is available on the SOS website. For updates, follow #swindonopenstudios.
Save the dates now: Saturday/Sunday 21st/22nd and 28th/29th September. From mid-August, brochures will be available across Swindon in libraries, community centres, pubs, and clubs.
