Among the 45 local artists and craftspeople taking part at the Christine’s Art House event in Romsey this August and September are Wessex Guild members Elizabeth Saunders and Ashley James. This will be a great opportunity to see and buy unique, handmade artworks, all on display at the same location.
The popular Hampshire Open Studios event has been scaled back substantially this year as a result of the pandemic, but some venues are planning to open with safe measures in place for artists and visitors.
Christine will have artworks on display and for sale throughout her three-storey quirky house, studio and garden. Her event is taking place from 22-31 August (10.30am-7pm daily), and she is offering limited further bookings from 1-7 September for those wanting more socially distanced viewing. Call or email her if you wish to arrange a September time slot.
She has made a giant Alice in Wonderland ‘set’ in the garden in a bid to make the children, and older visitors, laugh.
Sanitizing procedures will be in place and there will be free cuppas and cakes on hand in the daytime, or wine and nibbles for evening visitors.
Christine is also offering the option for groups to book a more private evening mini party with friends. Simply get in touch with her to arrange the visit.
Look out for Elizabeth Saunders’ stitched artworks, including cards, textile pendants, designer sketchbooks and framed pieces.
There will be different artists showing off their skills in the afternoons. Ashley James will be demonstrating in the garden studio in the afternoon of 23 August, hand-building his animal clay sculptures and talking to visitors at a safe social distance.
He will be showing and selling a wide selection of pieces, from the popular, quirky pigs, to a contemporary otter sculpture with wire details. Much of his inspiration comes for a love of the natural world and the countryside. Ashley says, “My grandfather worked on a farm and I have fond memories of hand feeding animals, and milking cows!”
As artists have had a hard year because of the virus, visitors’ support will be much appreciated.
Christine’s Art House show takes place at: 2 Albany Road, Romsey SO51 8EE.
Directions: Christine’s Art House is directly behind Mole Valley Country Store in Alma Road car park (free after 4pm), next to Waitrose. From Romsey train station, turn left into Alma Road and Albany Road is the first on the right (signposted).
For more details or to book an evening or September slot, call or email Christine on: Tel: 01794 522561, email: chris.watkins1960@gmail.com . Website: www.christinewatkinsart.com
