Open Studios – an excuse to go Nordic walking
The month of June in Suffolk is a fantastic chance to get inspired by local artists, who exhibit their work from their homes, opening over the 4 weekends in June between 6th and 28th.
The Open Studio scheme started in Berkshire in 1988 and was set up to support and promote the work of local artists. Suffolk Open Studios was born in 1993 and has been growing ever since.
Many of the artists collaborate by creating mapped trails incorporating several studios to create a great day out for visitors, many also demonstrate their craft, allowing the public to try their skill for themselves.
One of my regular walkers, Jayne Pope is busy this week preparing for her open days (20th/21st, 27th/28th), and is part of the Ousden, Wickhambrook and Red Lodge trail.
I Nordic walked from Ousden to Wickhambrook last weekend – which got me thinking about visiting the Open studios as a purpose for going out walking (my children certainly need a purpose). There are some areas that have a concentration of studios which are perfect for visiting on foot, Bury St Edmunds, Sudbury and Woodbridge to name but a few.
My very first introduction to the Open Studios was in Norfolk about 10 years ago, this year their Open Studios was 23rd May to 7th June. (Fabulous coastal walks - worth a visit next year). Cambridge Open Studios are the 4 weekends in July. Each website has a map to help you plan your route.
For many of the Open Studio artists, the East Anglian countryside is their source of inspiration. Nordic walkers, who have a chance to take in the pleasures of the countryside whilst out walking, might particularly enjoy seeing it through an artist's eye.