THE team at York Open Studios have announced new dates for 2021 following a re-think about the current lockdown guidelines.

Celebrating a special anniversary in 2021, the artists were keen to go ahead with the events this year, and a decision has been made to move the two weekends to July 10 and 11, and July 17 and 18. Featuring more than 140 artists and makers showing and selling their work within their homes and workspaces, this is an opportunity for art lovers and the curious to enjoy fresh air, meet artists, view and buy unique arts and crafts from York’s very best artisans.

Many of the artists booked for last year remain on the list, plus new artists and makers have also been selected by the external panel of art professionals, to give regular visitors a chance to enjoy new work as well as meet their favourite creatives.

Beccy Ridsdel, one of the founders, said: “We are grabbing the 2021 York Open Studios with both hands and channelling the optimism and enthusiasm from all our artists to ensure this year’s 20th show is one of the best. Our decision to move from April to July this year, gives us the opportunity for the stricter current Covid guidelines to relax and with July giving us better weather, we believe the public will have more confidence visiting artists’ studios. Our artists are more than happy to commit to the change and are very supportive of the reason behind our decision, so it is all systems go for July.

"Artists and makers bring a diverse range of skills to the weekends producing bespoke ceramics, furniture, glass, jewellery, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, textiles, wood carving and multi-media. There is something for everyone and every pocket. The artists also love to showcase their work within their surroundings and really value the interaction, whether you’re a buyer or a burgeoning artist. It’s a fabulous way too to enjoy York and view extraordinary work. It’s a date worth saving!”