Cambridge Open Studios, a thriving community of more than 500 artists, is celebrating its 50th anniversary with the launch of its biggest and best ever July Open Studios Art Festival.  

The organisation, which is one of the oldest artist-run open studio initiatives in the country, is hosting the famous festival across every weekend in July (06 – 07, 13 – 14, 20 – 21, 27 – 28 July 2024) which it promises will be packed full of VIP events, studio tours and creative surprises.  

Throughout the month, art collectors and members of the public alike, will have the opportunity to gain behind the scenes access to hundreds of working studios, browse unique art works, witness and participate in live demonstrations, tutorials and workshops, and buy exclusive pieces of art directly from more than 350 artists across Cambridge, Ely, Saffron Walden and the surrounding villages.  

The vast range of specialisms on display include painting, jewellery, printmaking, ceramics and pottery, glass art, digital art, drawing and illustration, woodwork and furniture, sculpture, textiles, photography, book art, lettering and calligraphy, mixed media and collage and much more.

Gabriella del Valle, Chair of the Cambridge Open Studios Management Team, said: “Over the last five decades, Cambridge Open Studios has evolved from just a handful of members in the early 1970s to a 500 plus strong membership organisation, comprising professional, amateur and hobby artists from all different backgrounds and walks of life. Throughout that time, we have welcomed more than 1,800 local artists into our community, and I am so proud to say our mission has never wavered: to make the arts accessible to all. 

“We are thrilled to be celebrating our golden jubilee in the best way we know how – by delivering an extra-special addition of the July Open Studios Art Festival. The free event attracts thousands of visitors each year and this July will be no different. It offers, not only the chance to embrace, celebrate and engage with the artistic community of Cambridgeshire, but also to purchase an exclusive piece of art, hand-crafted by a local artist or artisan. We hope to see you there!” 

To find out more about Cambridge Open Studios, visit their website.

Photo Caption: A member of the public learning more about art at a Cambridge Open Studios event in 2023.