Worcestershire Open Studios Art Week returns from Saturday 22 to Monday 31 August, bringing together more than 180 artists and makers across 100 venues for the county’s largest free visual arts event.
Now in its 11th year, Art Week invites visitors to step inside working studios, galleries, workshops and other inspiring venues, meeting the people behind the work, discovering how it is made and buying directly from the artist or maker.
This year, visitors can explore more than 20 different artforms, with several disciplines appearing at Worcestershire Open Studios Art Week for the first time, including willow weaving, digital art and illustrated poetry. Alongside these newcomers, visitors will discover painters, sculptors, ceramicists, jewellers, textile and glass artists, printmakers, woodcraft, blacksmithing and much more, reflecting the remarkable breadth of artistic talent across the county.
Whether exploring a favourite artist’s latest work or discovering someone new, visitors can enjoy everything from rural studios and converted barns to town centre galleries and shared exhibition spaces, often seeing works in progress, demonstrations and sketchbooks alongside finished pieces. It offers a rare opportunity to experience art in the places where it is created. New for 2026 is Young Membership, supporting artists and makers aged 16 to 25 and helping encourage the next generation of talent.
Gemma Griffiths, co-organiser of Worcestershire Open Studios and a participating artist, said; “One of the things that makes Art Week so special is the chance to meet artists and makers in the places where they work. Visitors can discover the stories, inspiration and techniques behind the finished pieces while exploring some wonderful venues across the county.
“Last year we welcomed more than 18,000 visits to studios and venues, and we’re looking forward to welcoming even more people this August. Whether you’re planning to buy original artwork, explore a new part of Worcestershire or simply enjoy a fascinating day out, there’s something for everyone.”
Worcestershire Open Studios is a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation that supports artists and makers across the county while encouraging people to discover, enjoy and buy original work. Art Week is free to visit, and many venues offer demonstrations, refreshments and the chance to talk directly with exhibitors.
To plan your visits, explore the interactive map and download the free digital guide, visit worcestershireopenstudios.org.
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