April 2009 Archives

A SCHEME which allows artists to open their homes or studios as galleries has received funding from the National Lottery for its second outing this summer.
Held for the first time last June, Harrow Open Studios sees painters, jewellery makers, sculptors and others invite visitors to drop by their properties at specific times to view and discuss their works and even buy or commission pieces.
This year's showcase, which features 31 exhibitors and will be held between Friday June 12 and Monday June 15, has attracted a £5,000 grant from Arts Council England.
The organisers say the money will enable them to provide access ramps for wheelchair users at a number of venues as well as an adapted minibus to transport people and their carers between venues.
On top of this, there will be a children's art competition and wider publicity to complement the growing event.
Funding co-ordinator Joy Trpkovic said: "We are delighted with the grant from Arts Council England and the recognition it gives to our Open Studios.
"It means that we can improve on last year's event, which was widely recognised as an outstanding achievement and a welcome innovation for the borough.
"We are very grateful for the initial support from local businesses last year who helped us get started and welcome new sponsors that are coming forward.
"Those individuals and business supporters are an investment for the future and will benefit from inclusion in our advertising and web presence."