Swindon Open Studios 2010

Video of Josephine Ikeda interviewed by Swindon Viewpoint

2010-09-18T18:38:00.000+01:00

Swindon Viewpoint went to interview Josephine Ikeda who takes part in the Swindon Open Studios. Here is the link to the video.

Swindon Open Studios 2010 listed in the Wiltshire Times

2010-09-12T18:18:00.000+01:00

The Wiltshire Times listed Swindon Open Studios and encouraged people to visit the different locations, including Swindon Central Library and the Platform Youth Centre in Faringdon Road (the former Railway Museum). Follow the link to read the article.

Swindon Open Studios 11 September at The Platform

2010-09-11T21:19:00.000+01:00

On 11 September 2010, The following artists were exhibiting, creating and meeting the public at The Platform (Ex railway museum), Faringdon Road, SN1 5ED:

JESSICA HARDING - Mixed media, pen, pencils and acrylic
ANN JELLEY - Watercolour, watercolour pencil, pastel
BEA MENIER - Painting, sculpture
JANE MILNER-BARRY - Oils
BENOIT PHILIPPE - Oils
MARGARET SADLER - Acrylic, watercolour, textiles, collage
SARAH SOLLOM - Mixed media and watercolour.

Jessica Harding in front of her works

SARAH SOLLOM Working on a new collage

Benoit PHILIPPE making an oil painting

Swindon Open Studios in Frequency Magazine

2010-09-10T16:55:00.000+01:00

Frequency Magazine did in their September issue a full page on the Swindon Open Studios 2010, with a teaser on the cover: "SWINDON IS OPEN THIS SEPTEMBER". A big thank you to them!

Vikki Loeber-Hughes and Karen Miller

2010-09-10T08:18:00.001+01:00

Vikki Loeber-Hughes and Karen Miller wanted to make sure they would be ready for the Swindon Open Studios... and they were a week in advance. Their display looks superb as you will see from the photographs. But don't take my word for it, go and visit them at:

Framework Art & Crafts - Unit 35, BSS House, Cheney Manor Industrial Estate, Swindon, SN2 2PJ

Opening times for both artists:
Sat 11th - 10am - 5pm
Sun 12th - 11am - 4pm
Mon 13th - 10am - 5pm
Tues 14th - 10am - 5pm
Wed 15th - 10am - 5pm
Thurs 16th - 10am - 5pm
Frid 17th - 10am - 5pm
Sat 18th - 10am - 5pm
Sun 19th - 11am - 4pm

VIKKI LOEBER-HUGHES - Soft pastel, oil pastel, acrylic and mixed media
Web: www.wikkiart.co.uk

KAREN MILLER - Acrylic/collage
Web: www.facswindon.co.uk

An interview with Jessica Harding

2010-09-10T08:05:00.001+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

I’m Oldtown based and work mainly in acrylic, oils, ink and pencil. I also enjoy photography and use photographic images in my work. My style concentrates on line and is generally loose and sketchy.

Self-Portrait by Jessica Harding

Q - How did you become interested in art?

I don’t really remember a specific point where I became interested in art, I loved to paint and draw as a toddler, I’d go through masses of scrap paper in a single day! I suppose art for me is a compulsion, even when I’m not working on something, I’m thinking about what I’d like to do next.

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

I tend to be drawn to anything that appears imperfect or disjointed in some way, it’s the little details that fascinate me - whenever I go for a walk it’s often the nooks and crannies and overgrown weeds that I find most inspirational(!) - things that appear somehow to have taken on a life of their own.

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

Although I like to use pencil, acrylic and oils I think if I had to pic a favourite it would be a simple ink pen - no way to erase, just keep going, in the moment and see what happens(!). I like the appearance of bare line, where the skeleton of the work is still visible.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

As well as creating portraits I am also interested in 'doodles', I often think of them as links to the unconscious mind. I like to use a ‘sketchy’ style when I work, I feel it allows me to be more free. I often work from photographs that I have taken.

Q - How would you define your style?

Scribbly, messy and a little anxious!

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

I’m drawn to artists that use a lot of visible line in their work such as Egon Schiele - his subjects appear imperfect, sometimes even grotesque and yet they are all the more beautiful for it. I’m fascinated by the under drawings of the great masters, where the energy and thought processes are still very visible, it’s like a narrative for their creation.

Q - How do you choose the subjects of your works?

I don’t really have a system for choosing subjects, if I see something I like I then think about how I might go about recreating and reinterpreting it.

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

I like to be aware of deadlines etc but also try not to be intimidated by them, I tend to continue to work on pieces as usual and then make a selection.

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

I made a few videos when I was studying at university (one of which involved crushing fake snails!) and it’s something I would like to experiment with again, there are certain concepts I’ve struggled with in the past that I think could be better executed as a videos piece.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

To be able to sustain myself completely from my work, always creating and always moving forward - I think being able to do what you really love is an ideal for most people.

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

Never wait to be inspired or for that ‘right’ moment - I think it’s possible to waste a lifetime this way, sometimes you just have to force yourself to do something, just keep on creating - it doesn’t matter if you don’t like the outcome, the process is still important.

Ocelot article on the launch of Swindon Open Studios

2010-09-08T19:29:00.001+01:00

Ocelot published an article on the launch of the Swindon Open Studios 2010 at Artsite on 10th September: Artsite to host 2010 Open Studios launch.

Article in Link magazine - Nine days to view artworks across Swindon from 11th

2010-09-08T19:14:00.000+01:00

Link Magazine published an article on the coming Swindon Open Studios, titled "Nine days to view artworks across Swindon from 11th".

They also published an earlier article giving the details of the event that will take place at Artsite during SOS 2010, under the title "Artsite pulls out the stops for Swindon Open Studios".

Come to the launch party!

2010-09-08T11:32:00.004+01:00

The Swindon Open Studios 2010 starts on Saturday September 11th. To celebrate this, we have on Friday 10th a party at Artsite, one of the venues participating to the event.

What: Swindon Open Studios 2010 launch party
When: Friday 10th September 2010, from 7:00 pm
Where: Artsite, Theatre Square, Swindon SN1 1QN

Everyone is welcome!

An interview with Sarah-Jayne Dixon

2010-09-07T19:49:00.000+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

Hello my name is Sarah-Jayne Dixon, I’m a local artist and one half of Pop Art Profile.

Jimi Page

Q - How did you become interested in art?

Can’t really say a definite age or time, as I have always been interested in art in all its various forms. I can definitely say that my tastes have evolved over the years into what I create now.

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

Wow…pretty much anything I find interesting, this can be film, tattoos, literature, illustration, comics, pretty much anything I absorb, but I would say music is a huge inspiration to me (I know it’s a huge cliché).

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

I work mainly with acrylic and spray paint as both mediums have a permanence and immediacy to them. I like the fact that there is not a lot of margin for error, and you can work quite quickly too. I like to constantly create something new.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

The paintings I create for Pop Art Profile came about as my partner Martin Lambourne (the other half of PAP) and I were looking for commercial art for our home. Everything we loved was way out of our price range so Martin suggested that we create our own artwork. Other people liked what we did and they commissioned pieces for themselves. That’s when we decided to sell to the public at prices we could afford ourselves. Our ethos is EVERYONE should be able to afford great quality art.

Karren O print

Q - How would you define your style?

Modern Pop Art with a twist.

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

There are so many, here’s just a few (not all visual)…Shawn Barber, Barbara Hepworth, Philip K. Dick, Grace Jones, Glen Fabry, Dolly Parton, Charles Bukowski, Bob Dylan, The Smiths…

Q - How do you choose the subjects of your works?

Popular culture icons, people who are talented or celebrated for whatever reason. I try to bring out their individual persona with colour, pattern, posture and line.

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

Get messy and paint, paint, paint.

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

I love doing what I do for Pop Art Profile, but would like to expand my skills by learning how to tattoo portraiture. What could be more satisfying than creating a very permanent piece of art.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

That’s a big question…to be able to live off my artwork, and to bring beauty into peoples homes and lives.

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

Notoriety and success as an artist becomes less important the more successful your relationships are. Concentrate on the special people around you, once you have love in your life everything else shall fall into place…promise.

An interview with Claire Davidge

2010-09-07T17:30:00.004+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

Hi, I’m Claire, I have a studio in Cheney Manor where magical things happen, and I’ve just got back from travelling around the US, which was an unforgettable experience. What can I say about myself? I can be shy sometimes, but once you get to know me or if we hit it off you will realize that I’m slightly mad, eccentric and seeking attention, but not too much only just a little bit. I don’t like to take life too seriously, I like to do fun things, meet interesting people and try new experiences. Oh and one day I hope to live in San Francisco with a big house, a yummy husband, two crazy kids and a couple of cats.

Q - How did you become interested in art?

I’ve always been naturally creative, from a young age. I used to spend hours in my bedroom writing stories then when I was 15 I discovered pastels… so my writing stopped and then I begun drawing. Since then I haven’t stopped creating, from making strange objects to experimenting with paint, video, installation etc...

Colour invaders

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

I am inspired by my experiences, my emotions, how I feel on daily basic. My work mainly captures a childlike escapism, which makes it fun and silly. Overall anything colourful, organic and psychedelic inspires me ranging from sweets, supernatural films, electro music, plant life etc…

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

At the moment, painting is my favourite medium. However when I make a painting I tend to think about how it would look together with several paintings so it becomes more installation based, which is what I have worked with in the past. I have worked extensively with latex. I love using latex because it sort of personifies my work into supernatural forms, giving the sense of something growing, organic or ‘poking through,’ like an unrequited interruption. Which is what I’m very interested in- interruption.

Psycho Swirl

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

My work is predominantly based on play, fantasy and fiction. I work across a range of disciplines using imagination as a starting point for my work. I am interested in making colourful compositions, paintings that use toys and objects to depict silliness and conjure up a playful space. My work mainly derives from photographing, scanning or making miniature installation sets featuring tiny objects or funny necessities that are pleasing and humorous to both children and adults.

Q - How would you define your style?

Informal, experimental, bright and contemporary…

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

I am inspired by a range of different artists including; Annette Messenger, Claes Oldenberg, Yayoi Kasuma, Pipilotti Rist and Louise Bougeoius. More recent painters would include Tal R, Danny Rolph, Marta Marce and Laura Owens.

Q - How do you choose the subjects of your works?

By listening to music and thinking about the things I’ve done, what they’ve made me feel and by wondering about what I want from the future. My work is a reflection of my life, how I want my life to be like it or what it is like now.

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

I try not to stress or force myself to prepare too much, I actually think that the best exhibitions are always the ones that are thrown together, out of the blue un-expectantly. For this open studio’s event I want people to come into my studio and get a feel of what I enjoy and work like, not put on a sophisticated, polished show.

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

I experimented quite vastly with a variety of media during college including video, installation, sound and sculpture but all along I’ve really just wanted to paint, so I am happy to stick with that for now. Although performance art has always been nagging at me, my painting work actually has an element of this, I am currently in the process of preparing for a performance in my friends gallery in Belfast in September so that is something I am quite excited about. For subject matter, I would like to bring in content from my recent travels round the USA. I think travelling is a good source to inspire ideas, the problem is I always have too many!

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

I want people to smile when they look at my work and I want it to be able to brighten up anyone’s gloomy day. As an artist I hope to live a long and happy life, fall in love, make many friends, try new things and do what I most enjoy.

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

Being an artist is about living, if you’re not living your life, your art will be very bad! Be bold, be different, never be afraid to try anything, and never care what other people think.

Swindon Open Studios 2010 goes to the Big Screen

2010-09-07T08:37:00.000+01:00

We have sent to the BBC a slideshow that will play on the Big Screen in Warf Green, Swindon Town centre in order to promote Swindon Open Studios 2010. The Big Screen is 35 square metres.

If you don't get a chance to see it, you can watch the slideshow recreated on YouTube (Note: the video has background music, so put your headphone on if you are in the office).

An interview with Theresa Dowdeswell

2010-09-06T17:39:00.002+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

My name is Theresa Dowdeswell and I design and make ceramic lamps, tealights and other items.

Q - How did you become interested in art?

I have always been interested in art from a practical sense – I enjoyed drawing and illustrating my work at school, enjoyed art classes and making things. I re-established my interest in 2000 when, after being made redundant, I decided to embark on a journey to discover what I wanted to do when I grew up. This saw me taking art history classes, Access to Art & Design and finally an HND in Ceramics at Swindon College. I would like to study further, possibly in fine art or conservation, and this is something I hope to do in the future.

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

Looking at the world around us, other designers/artists’ work, doodling and seeing what comes out of it, art galleries and my teachers.

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

Clay – when it behaves well it can be anything you want it to be. When it behaves badly it can be very frustrating! There is such a variety of clay available which means that one can have a very diverse range of work.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

At present I produce lamps, tealights and vases from porcelain slip (liquid clay) and have also been commissioned to make tiles for a kitchen which have pheasants on them. I make all my moulds and, apart from one particular glaze, I mix glazes from raw ingredients and experiment with them to get the finish I require.

I am beginning to experiment with some handbuilt pieces which are taking shape slowly.

Q - How would you define your style?

Modern, unfussy and from the heart.

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

Yves Klein; Barbara Hepworth; Antony Gormley – I love the way his figures are looking out and I want to know what they are looking at; Banksy – ingenious; Denise Roberts – my tutor at College and a true inspiration, she encourages everyone to realise their potential.

Q - How do you choose the subjects of your works?

It will sometimes depend on how I feel when I’m making as designs can happen as they are being made, some I have used in the past and know they will work well, and others will have been requested by a client. There are also times when I realise I’ve been drawing the same shape over and over so I feel it must be waiting to come out in clay form. I am currently trying to get from paper to clay with some new designs.

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

With a slight panic! Mostly making sure that I have enough of everything to put on a good display.

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

I would like to explore different methods of decoration and would also like to paint/draw as well. I also would like to incorporate photography into my work, producing transfers for use on the ceramics.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

To be able to work and live as an artist and not rely on another job to fund it, to have a gallery/café space for people to enjoy art of all types. To have my work featured in a publication such as Elle Decoration… many dreams, too many to list!

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

Go with whatever is coming your way, it’s always worth giving a chance and you never know what may follow.

An interview with Carmen Beatriz Norris

2010-09-06T08:26:00.000+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

I am an American artist who recently moved from Hoboken, New Jersey to Swindon with my family. I was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in New York City. As well as exhibiting and creating art, I have taught art to children ages 3 to 18.

Q - How did you become interested in art?

Ever since I was a child I have always been either drawing, painting or experimenting with art.

Mujer, 2005; collage, acrylic paints, beads, embroidery floss,

skeleton leaves, hand embroidered on watercolor paper;

13½" x 10½.

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

Colours, patterns, textures.

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

Mixed media, I enjoy combining mediums to create various effects.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

I am interested in patterns-in fashion, geometry, nature and the human condition. I’m interested in exploring how things connect to each other.

Q - How would you define your style?

Abstract, organic

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

I have many...Georgia O’Keeffe, Vincent van Gogh, Gustave Klimt, Raul Villareal, Joanie San Chirico. Writers-Sandra Cisneros, Esmeralda Santiago, Judith Ortiz Cofer.

Q - How do you choose the subjects of your works?

I collect images; anything that interests me. I keep a sketch book and use it to explore ideas and record my thoughts, a subject eventually emerges.

Palmas y Papel, 2006; digital collage, handmade paper,

beads, skeleton leaves, machine sewing, hand embroidered

on watercolor canvas; 10¼' x 8½".

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

I work in my studio; usually till the very last minute before I show my work.

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

I still want to continue what I’m doing but devote more time to it.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

To be able to create art and hopefully make a decent living from it.

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

Be open to new ideas and where they may take you and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.

An Interview with Lesley Anne Cornish - Artist

2010-09-05T21:12:00.003+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

A .- I am a professional artists and tutor, I live in Swindon and am Chair for The Swindon Artists Forum, whose Gallery is currently in Swindon’s Brunel Plaza. I have run courses at private studios in Berkshire and in Spain, and I now give private tuition for adults one to one or small groups in and around Swindon. Teaching gives me a real buzz and I enjoy proving to absolute beginners that they CAN paint. I work in my studio at home as much as I can.

Winter storm

Q – How did you become interested art?

A - I have had a love of art from an early age, I suppose it is in the genes as my uncle designed stamps for the Canadian Post Office. Being a shy child, I found art a satisfying means of self-expression, and I was blessed with wonderful art teacher at secondary school who encouraged and mentored me. I was asked to paint for, and tutor friends and their children, and spent many productive years painting pet and child portraits. For fifty plus years I have painted, drawn and taught, and have gained so much experience from that. In the past I attended various courses to learn new techniques and styles, and was asked to become a permanent tutor at a Private Studio in Berkshire, and have taught in their associate Studio in Spain. Now, I mostly paint for myself and give private tuition, although I still take commissions.

Q – What inspires you as an artist?

A. I was born in South Devon and have a love of the sea and the countryside, which reflects in the subjects of many of my painting. Inspiration comes from a glimpse of a light change on a hillside, or a child playing on the beach, a contrast of leaf tones in the sun; I just observe nature.

Q – What is your favourite medium?

The current medium of choice is Acrylic, it is so versatile and malleable, it also suits my spontaneous style. However, I still go back to my roots on occasion, and produce smaller traditional work in watercolour and pastels.

Q. Can you tell us more about your work?

In the work I produce I attempt to convey an atmosphere, be it subdued or vibrant, and also to create a harmonious composition using tonal blends and contrasts together with a balanced placing of elements. I love to work large scale, restricted only by the size of my studio.

Q. How would you define your style?

I tend to work in what I call ‘Freestyle’, though there is always an initial plan, the painting flows and almost takes on a life of its own, instinct dictates the composition and choice of colours. If it feels right, it probably is!

Black bamboo B

Q. What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

A. Edward Hopper and Turner are great favourites of mine, also Mark Rothko, I love the seeming simplicity of their work which at the same time can evoke so much emotion.

Q. – How do you choose the subjects of your work?

A. Quite often I see an image and the painting develops in my mind’s eye, and I am compelled to produce it, however, the plan is always flexible.

Q - How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like Open Studios?

A – It depends on the space available and the venue. Most of my work is large, so hanging it in an appropriate location is important, sometimes it is necessary to show smaller pieces when there are constraints. Some galleries express a preference for ‘Foliage’ or ‘Scapes’ so a mental scan of the work in my studio results in an assembly of themed pieces; it remains then only to select the pieces suitable for the available space. Most of my work is unframed, it is for the personal taste of the purchaser to frame or not as it suits.

Q – Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

A - I would like to develop my abstract art to a more fluid level, I think this genre is a very personal expression and I would like to explore the possibilities it presents and be confident its execution. However, I am open to possibilities and opportunities as they arise. In art you are always learning, about art practice, and about yourself, I find it very liberating and absorbing.

Q, As an artist, what would be your dream?

A - Do I have a dream? Well, a large studio and gallery by the sea, where I can paint and teach, exhibit and sell would be wonderful.

Q Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

A - To all my students I say ‘there are no rules in art, only techniques. Experiment!’ Be true to your own creativity, but be open to inspiration and ideas from any source.

An interview with Michaela Cheese

2010-09-05T08:04:00.001+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

I am 44 year old artist who has had a varied career including time working in health and financial services. After studying art at school and workshops over the years, most notably, life drawing and life sculpting, together with work in abstraction.

Q - How did you become interested in art?

For as long as I can remember I have been excited by shape, colour and texture. I loved art at school, and have continued this interest throughout my adult life by studying and experimenting with various different art mediums.

Venus in acrylic paint 20x24 box canvas

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

The requirement to be completely unique, playful and energetic – Art is definitely my therapy! For me, art is a visual expression of emotion.

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

I work mainly on large box canvasses using acrylic paint and mixed media. I like bold energy to leap out of the picture. To achieve this, I need to work quickly, with fast drying paints.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

Currently, I enjoy working in a semi-abstract fashion, which I begin ‘blindly’ by applying colour and texture, with no idea of the ‘end product’. After several hours, if I’m lucky, an idea with materialise and I am able to create a vague suggestion of something recognisable, which is aesthetically pleasing. I have also recently worked on some commissions for modern office developments. These have required the use of a restrained colour palette, and a ‘themed’ approach to painting on a large scale. For a recent commission, I completed a collection of simple bold images of local landmarks for a development in Camden, London, including paintings of the ‘Camden Roundhouse’ and ‘Camden Lock’.

Q - How would you define your style?

Original, modern, and contemporary.

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

I love certain works by : Aubrey Beardsley, Edgar Degas, Eric Ravilious, Pablo Picasso, Jacob Epstein, Henri Matisse, Georges Braque and Salvador Dali, to name but a few!

Q - How do you choose the subjects of your works?

Great modern photography, with good tonal contrast and strong images of interesting subject matter are probably of greatest influence to me, although I try to work intuitively not intellectually.

Mars in acrylic paint 20"x24" box canvas

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

With great gusto! I am very excited to be entering Swindon Open Studios for the first time and just can’t wait!

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

I particularly want to learn traditional ‘print’ techniques.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

‘My dream’ is forever evolving; however, I would love to get involved in a large community art project of some kind in the future.

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

Accept yourself! There will always be finer and worse artists than you, but there are none that can be you, so keep making time for creativity, have fun, and don’t worry if you do not create a masterpiece on each occasion!

An interview with Julie George

2010-09-04T07:46:00.003+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

Hi, my name is Julie George and I am a ceramic artist – I share a studio with another ceramicist on a lovely Cotswold farm and spend as much time there as I can – unfortunately I have another job as well!

Q - How did you become interested in art?

I always enjoyed it at school and have had various creative interests over the years (glass painting, silversmithing, jewellery making). I did an Access to Art course in 2002 at Swindon College followed by an HND in ceramics which really focussed my interest on ceramics.

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

Nature – particularly the sea and coastline. I grew up in Guernsey in the Channel Islands and am still influenced by the forms, textures and colours of the seaside. I am also very interested in architecture and find that inspires some of my work.

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

Ceramics – I find clay really interesting because it is so challenging and versatile. Glazing fascinates me because it is unpredictable and every piece is a one-off.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

I work in two main ways – slip-casting with porcelain slip using moulds I have made myself and hand-building using a textured crank clay which fires to a warm sandy/toasty colour. I like to layer texture, slip, oxides and glazes to create different decorative effects

Q - How would you define your style?

I want to create pieces that give people pleasure to use and to look at. I tend to use fairly simple forms and add interest and complexity with decoration

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

Jenny Beavan, Matthew Chambers, Jo Connell, Amanda Hoskin and Kurt Jackson.

Q - How do you choose the subjects of your works?

I get ideas all over the place – on holiday, walking in the countryside, at the supermarket! I always have a sketchbook with me so I can do a quick drawing and write a few notes when I see something I want to use. I enjoy talking to other artists about their work as I find that helps clarify and develops my ideas as well.

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

Trying to get enough stock made in time can be a challenge! With clay it can take a long time for pieces to dry out enough to be fired especially if the weather is cold or damp. As I can only be at the studio part time I have to make sure I focus on what I want to make rather than doing too much experimenting when I have an event to prepare for.

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

I want to learn more about glazing and get together a new range of work with a more architectural influence.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

To be able to make enough money with my art to do it full-time and give up ‘the day job’.

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

That even when you have a slow day at an exhibition/craft fair, etc and don’t make many sales you can still have made useful contacts which could be profitable at a future date.

An interview with Jo Ikeda

2010-09-03T08:30:00.000+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

My name is Jo Ikeda of Imari Design. I’m fairly new to the art scene, only starting to create bags and accessories from Japanese kimono last summer. I’m a young mum with a passion for fabric, fashion, history and I’m a bit of a bookworm too. I collect kimono and other Japanese paraphernalia.

Q - How did you become interested in art?

Last year my mother-in-law sent me an off-cut from an exquisite vintage gold wedding kimono (uchikake) from Japan for my collection. I had no idea what to do with it, but knew it was asking to be made into something, ‘up-cycled’ if you like. My neighbour, and good friend, suggested a bag. After many hours of fiddling around and re-visiting a sewing machine for the first time since GCSE, my first handbag was created. There has been no going back ever since!

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

Unusual colour combinations, traditional Japanese dress, geometric patterns, oriental symbolism, kabuki and 1970’s psychedelic fashion.

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

Without a doubt Japanese Kimono Obi Brocade. I hand-pick these sashes myself from Japan-the brighter the colours, the better. The embroidery is so luxurious and the material such good quality-perfect for bag making. There is also the added feature that somebody in the past has worn and loved the kimono, which adds authenticity. The materials I use are unique pieces of social history. You rarely find two obis exactly the same, which means my creations are one-of-a-kind.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

My designs are built round the beautiful fabrics and are real conversation starters. There is a lot of symbolism behind most Japanese kimono designs and almost all of the patterns have hiddenmeanings. (For example a background of hexagons represents Tortoiseshell, which traditionally symbolises longevity) Where possible I try to include this as a feature of my designs because I feel that this background information into Japanese culture adds another dimension to the pieces. I love re-working vintage textiles into something that functions in a different way in a modern setting.

I also make smaller pieces like corsage brooches, phone pouches and wallets.

Q - How would you define your style?

Unique and bright. No two of my obi bags are exactly the same. I like to cut the fabric around the design to include certain features, which means that I don’t normally stick to patterns. I have made some great bags from patterns, but they can also be restricting.

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

Anna Niponica, a lady who re-works kimono into exquistite western style dresses.

Biba

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

I wish I had time to make more handbags to display. I juggle looking after a family and sewing whenever I can. But I do aim to have a couple of new designs made in time for Open Studios.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

My short term goal is to invest in a new sewing machine, as my current one is very old!

My long-term dream would be to be able to travel to Japan on fabric buying trips every year and to run cosy bag making/corsage making workshops for small groups from a home studio.

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

Never rush to finish a piece of work. If things aren’t going the way I planned, the best thing I find is to sleep on it and wake up with a fresh perspective in the morning.

Link Magazine article on Swindon Open Studios 2010

2010-09-02T20:11:00.002+01:00

Link Magazine has published an article on Swindon Open Studios with some details of the events that will take place at Artsite. Read "Artists showcase their work from 11 to 19 September".

Article on Swindon Open Studios in the Evening Advertiser

2010-08-19T19:15:00.001+01:00

The Swindon Evening Advertiser published an article titled "New Artworks to go on show".

An interview with Toni Robinson

2010-08-19T07:26:00.000+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

I am a visual artist driven by political and social ideas. I start with a concept, often precipitated by issues of social exclusion and prejudices and then explore suitable media with which to express this, to create awareness.

Q - How did you become interested in art?

I have always had a passion for the arts, earlier on in life as the viewer. Only later in life when I realised I can do and be anything I want to be did I return to university to study and have now been working full time as an artists for ten years now.

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

My inspiration comes from a deep need to creative myself and from the numerous participants on projects I regularly delivered with people who do not believe they are creative.

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

I have two favourite mediums and love both.

Oil on canvass – painting alone in my studio where nothing else and no one else exists.

Installation art made in consultation with communities listening to other people’s views on life.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

At this time I am painting portraits and love the intimacy of this.

I am also delivering 2 long term projects:

The Intergeneration Partnership Project with Swindon Borough Council- An arts and culture collaboration between children, young people and senior citizens in sheltered accommodation, aiming to foster a greater understanding between younger and older people to reduce the isolation of older people and engage the community.

A Heritage Lottery Partnerhsip project – to bring together young people from different comunities and cultures to explore diversity in order to gain a better understanding and respect of differt cultures.

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

I love the freedom of the work of Louise Borgeois and Egon Schiele and so wish I could be as out there in my work. Also greatly admire the architect Frank Lloyd Right

Q – How do you choose the subjects of your works?

I collect people to paint by introducing myself to interesting people sometimes in the street and invite them to stay at my house while I paint and draw them, luckily my husband and children are very understanding and I have made some great friends this way. My installation work comes from conversations with people abut life.

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

Sadly I leave it to the last minute and then rush around preparing just like the rest of my busy life.

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

I would love to have a mentor for my painting.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

Six month of uninterrupted time in my studio

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

Give yourself six months of uninterrupted time in your studio

For more information on Toni's work in the community, visit the website No Added Sugar.

Vanetta Joffe's favourite picture

2010-08-15T07:46:00.001+01:00

SECRETS 50 x 50 cm mixed media on canvas/MDF

"Secret" is Vanetta Joffe's favourite picture for this year Swindon Open Studios 2010:

"The theme is "What lies beneath....". Leading on from the Elements series, this painting started as an abstract of the Wiltshire landscape, using acrylic washes , inks , rock salt, fine twigs.

When all this was dry I drew the ammonite in water-colour pencils, sealed with clear varnish, and then applied gold leaf .

The original theme has opened up so many avenues to explore; I hope to have one or two more completed or in progress for the Open Studios weekends."

You can read Vanetta's interview from last year Swindon Open Studios and visit her website.

An interview with Gordon Dickinson

2010-08-13T07:54:00.001+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

I am Gordon Dickinson a self taught artist.

I paint, sculpt, film and photograph.

I am Swindon born, serving an apprenticeship in Swindon rail workshops as a coach builder.

I run a participary art company, called No Added Sugar, with my wife Antoinette.

Naughty Boid - Steel sculpture by Gordon Dickinson

Q - How did you become interested in art?

I can’t really say how or when I began taking an interest in art, it just started to happen, and grew like a lichen until I became completely covered.

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

My recent work has been mainly sculptural and is based on nature and wildlife.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

This year I have exhibited at sculpture shows in Henly, Devon, Norfolk, Tetbury, Cirencester, Cotswold Water Park and the RHS show Tatton Park.

Shows booked for the rest of 2010 include Walcot Chapel, Bath, Cotswold Water Park and Kent

I am currently working on two large scale commissions for two new Swindon schools.

I have tried to listen to my heart and not my head and take my work to somewhere we haven’t visited before.

I enjoy a challenge and like to push myself beyond my comfort zone.

Q - How would you define your style?

I would describe my style as traditionally contemporary.

Perch - Steel sculpture by Gordon Dickinson

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

Artists I like …. Louise Bourgeois, David Hockney, Picasso, Antony Gormley, Poly Morgan, Adam Crossland and many more.

Q - How do you choose the subjects of your works?

I never plan too far ahead, most of my ideas are spontaneous, I need to carry them out as soon as possible or they get left behind.

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

I leave it until the last minute, then just go for it.

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

I would love to try all things, but in particular stone carving, casting and silver work

I would love the time and space to work on lost ideas.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

My dream would be to be to continue doing what I am doing now but with a bit more money.

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

My snippet of wisdom would be “Don’t just talk about it”.

Please visit Gordon Dickinson's website, Pavenhill Sculptures, to see more of his sculptures.

An interview with Esme Wheatley

2010-08-11T07:07:00.008+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

My name is Esme Wheatley, I have lived in the area for 20 years. I am a mother of two daughters, Alexandra and Freya and I am married to Shaun.

Q - How did you become interested in art?

Since early on at school, I have always been interested in all creative areas.

Q - What inspires you most as an artist?

I am inspired by everyday objects and the desire to creative something I would love around me or my home.

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

I love working with a sewing machine and fabric. The colours and effects that can be created are endless.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

My work involves creating pictures using recycled fabric with accents to enhance the design using polymer clay. I also use polymer clay to design small pieces of jewellery and accessories.

Q - How would you define your style?

Modern with a hint of vintage.

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

My influences are not from specific artists but from everyday items and images.

Q - How do you choose the subjects of your works?

I sketch everyday items first then see if I can then recreate that with fabric or clay.

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

This is my first time at such an event and I have never shown my art before so it will be a whole new experience.

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

I have over the years tried different mediums such us cake making and decorating, reupholstering so I am always open to new ideas.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

For people to love the items I create.

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

As this is all new to me, I am hoping other people will be able to share their experiences with me.

Check Esme's website to see more of her works.

An interview with Sarah Sollom

2010-08-04T08:42:00.009+01:00

Q – Could you introduce yourself briefly to the readers?

A former teacher of languages, then an illustrator and writer of educational materials. I have developed my art in recent years.

Sunrise shanty - Painting by Sarah Sollom

Q - How did you become interested in art?

Watching my mother painting.

Q - What inspires you most as an artist? Where do I begin?

Apart from beautiful skies, the sea, city skylines and places I visit, I love intriguing objects, dilapidated buildings, old windows and doors and resourceful people going about their daily lives.

Q - What is your favourite medium or media? Why?

I love both acrylics and collage as I can add textures, special effects and fragments of scripts.

Q - Could you tell us some more about your work?

I am constantly experimenting with different techniques and subject matter. I have painted a lot of stylised animals, mainly elongated, decorated elephants. I have also done many collages of makeshift buildings and shanty towns which have proved very popular and led to numerous commissions. I like a picture that tells a story.

Jiangsu waterside dwelling - Painting by Sarah Sollom

Q - How would you define your style?

Quirky, very diverse and I believe unique. No ‘polite’ local landscapes or vases of flowers for me!

Q - What are your influences; artists from the past or present who inspire you?

I love art that shows people and how they live (or lived in various periods of history) – not portraits or posed-for pictures but ordinary working people, as painted by some of the impressionists and many other artists of the past.

Q - How do you choose the subjects of your works?

Pleasing shapes, things that make me smile – objects that intrigue me, scenes that ask me questions, e.g. Who used to live here? Scenes that show resourcefulness and the human spirit, often in adversity.

Q- How do you prepare yourself for an exhibition or a show like the Open Studios?

I produce things that are always popular – my shanty towns never stay around for long! I also like to put in some new, experimental stuff.

Q - Are there territories (media, subjects, etc.) you want to explore in the coming years?

Cities with wonderful buildings for skylines in experimental colours.

Q - As an artist, what would be your dream?

To own my own gallery with a coffee shop.

Q - Could you share one thing that you have learnt in your own art practice that would be useful to other artists?

Always be true to yourself and paint from the heart. It will shine through in your work.

To see more of Sarah's work, make sure you visit her website: www.sandsollom.com

2010-07-30T18:34:00.002+01:00

Swindon Vewpoint made a short video during the Swindon Big Arts Day, where the Committee promoted the coming Swindon Open Studios.

You can watch the video on Swindon Vewpoint website.

They talk about Swindon Open Studios 2010

2010-07-14T19:04:00.005+01:00

Physis Daily News published an article on the coming Swindon Open Studios 2010. Check out this website to read the article.

SOS 2010 is also listed on the Visit Britain website.

Swindon Open Studios at the Swindon BIG Arts Day

2010-07-12T20:21:00.011+01:00

Saturday 10th July was "Swindon Big Arts Day" at Lydiard Park.

We had a table in the Art & Craft tent in order to promote the coming open studios with the public and reach more artists living in the Swindon area.

Some of the SOS 2010 organisers (from left to right): Jane Milner-Barry, Benoit Philippe, Linda Kasmati and Bea Menier

Benoit Philippe painting on the day to give a flavour of what visitors to the Swindon Open Studios 2010 can expect.

The success of the event surpassed the organiser's expectations. They were hoping to have five thousand visitors and twenty thousand visitors came during the day.

Many people sign-up to be added to our mailing list to get more details when the time of the event approaches. We also met some new artists.

The Swindon Open Studios 2010 launch

2010-06-12T19:49:00.003+01:00

Many artists came to the launch of the Swindon Open Studios which will take place in September 2010.

It was good to get artists signed-up for the event and see everyone talking together while watching a slide-show of everyone's paintings.

A Photograph from the local newspaper, the Swindon Advertiser, came along and we has a good article published on the launch.

Grace & Grit, an exhibition of sculptures by Pat Elmore

2010-06-11T07:30:00.006+01:00

Pat Elmore, who took part in the Swindon Open Studios in 2009 and will take part again this year has an exhibition at the West Ox Arts gallery.

Grace and Grit shows work by two artists who seek beauty of line and form in materials which are both hard and intractable. Pat Elmore carves directly into stone and wood to reveal human and animal forms, as well as more abstract shapes.

Grace & Grit

PAT ELMORE – Sculpture

BARRRY COTTRELL - Prints

5th - 27th June 2010

West Ox Arts gallery

Town Hall, Market Square, Bampton OX18 2JH

Opening times:

Tuesday to Saturday 10.30am – 12.30pm & 2 – 4pm.
Sunday 2 – 4 pm

For more information on the gallery http://www.westoxarts.org/

For more information on Pat’s works, visit her website at http://www.patelmore.co.uk/

Launch of Swindon Open Studios 2010

2010-05-18T09:40:00.008+01:00

Calling All Artists

An Invitation to the Launch of Swindon Open Studios 2010.

Come and join us at the Launch 7.00pm-9.00pm on 10th June 2010 at The Post Modern, Artsite, Theatre Square, SN1 1QN.

Nibbles and drinks provided.

Meet other artists, learn what’s new for 2010 and sign up for this year’s Open Studios.

http://www.swindonopenstudios.org.uk/

This year’s dates for the Swindon Open Studios:
11th Sept-19th Sept

SOS 2010 on SwindonWeb

2010-05-08T18:50:00.004+01:00

SwindonWeb has published an article titled"Calling all Swindon artists" to get artists living or working in the Swindon area to take part into the Swindon Open Studios 2010.

Swindon Open Studios in Artists & Illustrators magazine

2010-04-19T21:28:00.004+01:00

Artists & Illustrators (May 2010 issue) is running a feature article on open studios.

Swindon Open Studios is also advertised in this issue.

Thank you to our sponsor - The Midcounties Co-operative

2010-03-25T07:30:00.002Z

The Midcounties Co-operative has awarded Swindon Open Studios a Co-operative Membership Community Funding.

In the name of the Organising Committee and all participating artists, we would like to express our gratitude to the Midcountries Co-operative. This award will help to promote the 2010 Swindon Open Studios in the community and make it even more successful than last year.

Make sure you visit the website of our sponsor: http://www.midcounties.coop/

Register for Swindon Open Studios now!

2010-03-23T16:33:00.002Z

Welcome to 2010 Swindon Open Studios.

This years Open Studios is open for business.

Please visit the Swindon Open Studios website and you will see we've extended the possible length of Open Studios by popular request this year to 9 days, although as you will see from the application form, you don't need to participate in all nine days.

Some key dates for this year event to get into your diary:

10th June: Invitation launch for artists at Artsite 7:30-9:00pm

10th July: Swindon Does Arts event at Lydiard Park, we will be there with application forms and publicity.

19th July: Deadline for entries to Open Studios.

Mid August: publication of brochure

11th-19th September: 2010 Swindon Open Studios.

Call to action

Don't wait: go to the Swindon Open Studios website and download this year application form to register.

Swindon Open Studios 2010 - Information for Artists

2010-02-09T20:39:00.002Z

Make sure your mark your diary to participate to:

The 2010 Swindon Open Studios

11th – 19th September 2010

Artists and craftspeople living in and around Swindon open their studios to the public in this popular annual event.

For further details visit http://www.swindonopenstudios.org.uk/.

Swindon Open Studios is open to artists living within a twelve-mile radius of Swindon. You may wish to open your studio to the public, or to display your work with others in a public space.

SOS is more than an exhibition: artists are encouraged to be on site and to discuss their work with their visitors. Artists can build on the event by demonstrating their practice or conducting workshops if they wish, and some provide refreshments for their visitors. The benefits to artists of taking part in Swindon Open Studios are considerable. The event gives tangible opportunities to raise each artist’s profile, gain valuable feedback from the public, and, of course, the chance to sell their work. Swindon Open Studios is an excellent way for artists to publicise their work and network with other artists.

2009 was the most successful year to date for SOS. Over sixty artists took part, and there was a huge increase in the number of visitors. As a result, SOS decided to extend the event from a single weekend to a nine-day period covering two weekends: 11th to 19th September 2010. Participants can decide their own opening hours within this period.

To get the application form to join Swindon Open Studios 2010, please to the Swindon Open Studios website or contact the organisers. The form must be returned by 17th July with the £25 entry fee.

Participating artists will receive:

An illustrated listing on the SOS website, giving your name, contact details, location and opening hours, and a brief statement about your work
An illustrated listing in the SOS brochure, and copies of the brochure.
Publicity for SOS via tourist information websites, local radio and other media, a dedicated blog, and the BBC “Big Screen” in Swindon town centre.
Assistance and materials to help you promote your own event.Exhibition space, if required.