North East Open Studios 2009

As Aberdeen hosted the annual Doors Open Day on September 12th, where some thirty five venues across the city offered unprecedented public access to their interiors, a further eight day art ingress also erupted throughout the city and shire. North East Open Studios is a truly unique opportunity for all members of society to appreciate the creative talent in their area - be it studios, private residences or perhaps a working space hidden behind that giant, gnarly, neighbouring door that you’ve always harboured some intrigue for.

Since 2003 artists, crafts-folk and gallery-owners have pulled their collective powers together for one Autumnal week, helping to engage a wider audience for small businesses looking to launch awareness of their distinct products and skills. Run as a voluntary community organisation it’s the biggest of its kind in Scotland and perfectly answers some serious questions about the North East’s commitment to the arts, especially in the wake of Aberdeen’s decision to run as UK City of Culture 2013.

Highlights of NEOS 2009 include Peacock Visual Arts, Castlegate, where tours and artist demonstrations will allow visitors to shake off the mystique behind some of the mighty big, and baffling, old-school printing machinery. Mill Farm, Kemnay, has print, textile and multimedia projects from a fine array of diverse talent while Salix Pottery, Banff, presents nature inspired photography and ceramics: no doubt directly roused by the stunning RSPB nature reserve at Troup Head.

So pick up the free NEOS catalogue, take to the roads and soak up the art world... in your world.