Annual open studios event set to welcome public

More than 350 artists and creative makers across the North East of Scotland are getting ready to welcome visitors to their studios and workshop over the next week.
Mark Dowie
By Mark Dowie
Published 9th Sep 2023, 15:00 BST
​This year’s North East Open Studios will feature more than 350 artists specialising in a range of different media.​This year’s North East Open Studios will feature more than 350 artists specialising in a range of different media.
​This year’s North East Open Studios will feature more than 350 artists specialising in a range of different media.

Covering an area from Montrose to Forres, North East Open Studios (NEOS) is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and will take place between September 9 and September 17.

Lynne Staples-Scott, NEOS23 chairperson, said that the event is result of continuing commitment by organisers and participants.

She said: “The fact that NEOS has been going for two decades is testament to the dedication and vision of many people, including our founder, Susie Hunt who has rejoined the committee this year.

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    "The North East of Scotland is home to an astonishing number of creative people who have skills ranging from traditional wood and stone carving to digital art.

    "The nine-day long Open Studios event will feature a wealth of creative talent and is a great opportunity for the general public to visit some of these often hidden gems and meet the artists to find out more about what they do.”

    NEOS is believed to be the biggest event of it’s kind in Scotland, with 270 members this year.

    Lynne added: “Some are taking part as individuals while others are listed as part of a group.

    "And this year, there are 55 new members suggesting that the creative spirit is stronger than ever in this part of Scotland.

    This year, NEOS is also collaborating with North East Scotland College who will be opening their doors at both their Aberdeen and Fraserburgh campuses during the event to showcase new and developing talent from their HND creative courses.

    It is estimated that approximately 20,000 visits are made to NEOS members over the nine days, making it a significant event in the calendar of the North East of Scotland.

    To find details of artists taking part in NEOS, visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk, download the app from Google and Apple play stores or look out for the distinctive yellow catalogue in various local outlets.

    Related topics:North EastScotlandMontrose