Is your artistry on show?
Getting involved with TOTNES & DARTINGTON OPEN STUDIOS 2026?
Totnes & Dartington Open Studios (TDOS) has provided a platform for local artists to share their work with visitors, since 2000, giving access to studios and workshops not normally seen by the public. Every year there is an open invitation for artists to apply to join the project and there is a selection process for places that are available.
Open Studios is an intense four days
TDOS are a group of artists, including painters, sculptors, ceramicists, printers & potters, who open their studios and workshops to the public during the late May Bank Holiday weekend for 4 days. They welcome everyone who comes to visit to view the art, chat about the artists inspiration and practise, and perhaps take the opportunity to buy a piece of work that they fall in love with!
Verity Newman, who is a long established member of the group says “I have been part of Open Studios for almost 2 decades. Its good being part of this friendly group. I value the focus on my work as the weekend draws near. Over every Open Studios weekend I have met interesting and interested people. It feels a privilege to belong.” & another member Judy Cockram said “I have been part of Totnes Open Studios for a number of years both exhibiting in my own studio and also
sharing with someone else in theirs. I have found it very rewarding – meeting lots of interesting people and a great opportunity to showcase, discuss and sell my work. I also enjoy being part of an artistic community.”
There is also a collective exhibition at Birdwood House Gallery in Totnes, at the beginning of May for a week each year, to showcase work from all the members of the group.
A printed brochure is produced and is available to distribute during the lead up to the main Open Studios event. The group also meet socially every month in the Bay Horse for a drink and chatas well as having other social activities during the year.
Multimedia artist Anne King said “I joined TDOS shortly after I moved to Totnes in 2007 and I am so pleased I did . Being a member gave me confidence to show my work and the more experienced members provided me with inspiration and support. Open Studios is an intense four days, involving lots of work to prepare but very rewarding to meet and talk ‘art’ with visitors from near and far.”
Their website is: www.totnesopenstudios.uk where there is more information and work by the artists who are part of this exciting group. You can also follow them on Instagram: @totnesopenstudios
They are keen to welcome committed artists living or producing their work within a 2 mile radius of the Royal Seven Stars hotel in Totnes, and inviting artists to apply for the limited number of places available to new members.
The application requires 4 – 6 photos of art and a CV to: angelafaheyartist@gmail.com and ann@seymourvillas.com
Applications close on January 31st 2026.
