Visitors from near and far have been exploring behind the scenes with artists and makers, as Devon Open Studios gets under way.

With a record number of artists participating this year, there are more opportunities for local people and visitors to explore the county’s creative talent.

Just a few days in, artists are reporting high visitor numbers and sales of their work. A number of studios are open in the East Devon region, with full details on the Devon Open Studios website www.devonopenstudios.co.uk/studio/, which will point you to some of the fantastic talent on our doorstep.

An example of the artistic enterprise on display includes award-winning international artists Juliette Mills and Dominic Welch, who are based in Chagford, where they are showing work in their garden and studio.

Dominic has a reputation as one of the leading sculptors of his generation, and his work is in collections all over the world. He creates moon-discs, planetary spheres, flames, shoots and primeval sea creatures, which are displayed in the garden of the house, which was built by a sculptor in 1890 and has a history of sculptors in residence.

Juliette’s photographs explore the relationship between people, animals and the natural world. She is drawn to quiet moments of understanding and trust between people and animals.

Juliette said: “We’ve been really busy since our private view on Friday evening, when we had 85 visitors. It’s wonderful that Devon Open Studios is attracting visitors from all over the country. We’ve had people from London, from Dorset and from all over Devon. We’ve sold several pieces; it’s working so well for us, and people are really enjoying it."

A total of 323 artists are showing their work at 183 venues all over Devon until 26 September.
Printed Guides are available in tourist information points and cultural venues. A digital version is available online, along with more information, including a map of venues on Devon Open Studios website.