Introduction and Welcome

Welcome to Herts Open Studios 2007 - the 17th year of this much anticipated annual arts event! The first ever Herts Open Studios, in 1991, included a mere 17 studios.This year sees an incredible 133 studios, involving more than 200 individual artists. Included in this are a number of new and exciting venues such as a water tower and a Victorian summerhouse. In addition, there are a number of exhibitions running alongside Open Studios.

One of the main features of Open Studios is the opportunity for interaction between members of the public and artists.Visitors are encouraged to talk to artists about their work and many of this year's artists are also taking the opportunity to demonstrate their creativity in action. A number are even offering visitors a chance to have a go. See individual entries for details. Entry to all studios is free and there is no obligation to buy.

Artists have worked hard to open their studios for you to enjoy, and you are encouraged to try and visit as many as you can.Your local library may even have a display showing a suggested trail for visiting studios in your area. But, if you cannot get to all the studios you would like to visit during the Open Studios period, many artists are also delighted to be contacted throughout the year.

You can also meet some of this year's artists by going to the podcast page and listening to audio interviews.

This year, with support from the National Lottery through Arts Council England,we have introduced a series of "Open Studios in the Community" events. More events will be held during 2008. Future events will be detailed on this website.

And finally, thank you for supporting the artists in Hertfordshire. Thanks also to the artists and volunteers who have helped to organise Open Studios, and thanks to our sponsors.

I hope you enjoy visiting Open Studios!

Wendy Dumbrell
Coordinator