More than 100 artists, designers and craftspeople in Swindon will be throwing open the doors to their studios next month to let the public see how they work.

Swindon Open Studios returns over two weekends on September 16 and 17 and 23 and 24 with 64 venues, used by 120 artists, open to the public.

Many of the artists will be opening their own studio doors, whilst others will be showing their work in designated pop-up venues all over Swindon and within a 15-mile radius of the town centre.

Participants will be happy to discuss their work with visitors and many will be giving demonstrations of their practice.

Some of the artworks on display may be for sale and some venues will have light refreshments available.

Committee member Deborah Battaglia says: “This event is about showcasing local talent and connecting people through art.

"Many people consider the creation of artwork to be akin to magic and take great pleasure in coming to see artists in their studios amidst the mucks and messes of paint, clay, glass or stone, and possibly even having an opportunity to try something for themselves.”

And the councillor in charge of arts and culture in Swindon has endorsed Deborah’s enthusiasm.

Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for art and culture said: "Open Studios is one of the best events in Swindon's rich cultural calendar.

"It gives us the opportunity to visit favourite art makers in their creative space, and to discover new work and new artists we don't know yet.

“There is such a deep vein of talent and creativity in our town, and I'm excited for people to have the opportunity to experience it in the intimate setting of the studio."

Deborah added: “There is something for every taste with abstract and figurative paintings, textiles and embroidery, mural design, ceramics glass and mosaic work all on offer, and more besides.

"For local art lovers, Swindon Open Studios really is too good to miss."

Brochures for Swindon Open Studios are available from community and sports venues, libraries and many pubs, cafes, bars and retail outlets throughout the town and surrounding areas.

Full details of the artists, locations of the studios and venues and a downloadable brochure can be found online at swindonopenstudios.org