Worcestershire's largest free art event is taking a new direction this year, repositioning as a hub to promote contributors' work and events over the August bank holiday and beyond.

For the past nine years, artists and makers have exhibited at Worcestershire Open Studios' annual event around the August bank holiday.

This year, due to recent changes in the organisational team, the event will not be fully operational but many member artists and craftspeople will be opening their doors to visitors.

Gemma Griffiths, a voluntary organiser of Worcestershire Open Studios, said: "When we took over from the previous team, Worcestershire Open Studios was in danger of being closed down and lost completely.

"We have saved it but, unfortunately because of timing issues, it simply hasn’t been possible for us to stage the usual county-wide event this year.

"That said, we are doing all we can to support those of our members who have decided to either go it alone or as part of an Art Trial."

The new organisational team has launched a membership scheme which enables artists and craftspeople to showcase their work on Worcestershire Open Studios' revamped website.

Contributors' contact details, as well as news of any private events, exhibitions, and workshops they are hosting during the course of the year, can also be displayed on the website.

The intention is to reposition Worcestershire Open Studios as an artistic hub in addition to the annual in-person event, with the hub offering contributors and visitors a space to share and read news about the art scene's goings-on.

Workshops, get-togethers, and group exhibitions are being considered for the future too.

Ms Griffiths said: "We are delighted that we now have the backing of three key sponsors: The Bevere Gallery in Worcester; Elmslie House in Malvern; and Colcards, also in Malvern.

"We have also elicited support from a range of arts-based local companies which are prepared to offer our members discounts on their products and/or services."

Plans are already underway for Worcestershire Open Studios' 10th Anniversary return in August 2025.

More information is available at www.worcestershireopenstudios.org, and on Worcestershire Open Studios' Instagram page.