Artists from the Harleston & Waveney Art Trail collective are getting ready to fling open their studio doors this May.

The event celebrates the creativity of artists and makers based throughout the valley that forms the border between Norfolk and Suffolk. 

The exciting group of 23 artists will open their studio doors to visitors for five days across the weekends of 16-17 and 23-25 May, including the late bank holiday Monday. 

“The 22nd year of the trial will involve more than 20 creative artists”

It’s a wonderful opportunity for locals and visitors alike to explore how and where artists work in the stunning landscapes of south Norfolk and north Suffolk – and what’s more, it’s completely free.

The artists work in a range of mediums including contemporary and traditional painting, printmaking, textiles, ceramics, sculpture, mixed media, drawings and collage – and they will be on hand to chat to visitors about their work. 

One of the organisers of the Art Trail, Denise Ann, said: “We are delighted that the 22nd year of the Harleston and Waveney Art Trial will involve more than 20 creative artists in the beautiful Waveney Valley. 

“Regular visitors can expect new surprises”

“Visitors can explore this wonderful area, which criss-crosses Norfolk and Suffolk, while discovering artwork aplenty in open studios along the way. Visitors can view brilliant and inspiring artwork, chat to artists first-hand about their work and, if they see something they like, they can buy it and take it home. 

“Some of the studios will be opening for the first time as we welcome new members to the group so regular visitors can expect new surprises too. Each and every member is looking forward to welcoming people to their studios, we can’t wait to see you!” 

The artist’s studios are dotted within a ten-mile radius of Harleston in many attractive locations such as Brockdish, Starston, Pulham Market, St Cross South Elmham, Ditchingham, Bungay, Mendham, Weybread, Needham, Thwaite, Bungay and Topcroft. 

Ceramicist Jason Wick is taking part for the first time, he said: “I’m very keen to have people come and see where I work, ask questions and to see the large collection of pieces I have created. 

“My studio is in Denton, a vibrant little village with a lot to see. Visitors can expect to see a large collection of previously unseen work in the surroundings of my chaotic often very messy studio/garage. I work in stone and earthenware and mostly hand build my pieces. I create a lot of glazes and always love experimenting to create new ideas. I’ve lived in the Waveney Valley my whole life so it cannot fail to inspire anything I do.” 

“See where the work is made”

Pauline Antram, a sculptor, has recently moved to the area, she said: “I’m looking forward to getting to know other local artists and becoming part of the creative community. I always enjoy sharing my work with the public, and I value the conversations and responses that come from people encountering it in person. 

“My studio is based in my garden in Gillingham, South Norfolk — a little further away than most of the other venues — and I would be delighted if visitors make the journey to explore it. 

“Visitors can encounter sculptures situated throughout the outdoor space, as well as drawings and paintings displayed inside my recently built studio. There will also be an opportunity to see where the work is made and to talk about the process behind it.” 

Trail brochures listing all the artists and their studio locations will be available from mid-April. They can be picked up from any branch of Durrants, and other locations around the valley and region. 

The brochure, all studio details and information about additional events and workshops hosted by some of the artists will be available on the HWAT website at www.hwat.org.uk. 

All studios are open across the two weekends between 10am and 5pm each day (except for one only open on the last weekend). 

The event is sponsored by Durrants Estate Agents.