Over 140 artists and makers across Sheffield and the surrounding areas opened up their homes, studios, galleries and workshops for free across five days. 

From May 2 to 4 and May 9 to 10, 144 artists and 83 venues were opened up for artists and makers to display their work, answer questions and sell their creations. 

Abstract artist, Kate Bevan, 38, opened up her Endcliffe studio showing off her unique and colourful work.

She said: “Its really nice to be able to sell to people directly. Galleries usually charge 40 per cent commission. 

“You get to meet everybody and a lot of people don’t know about it, so people in passing are taking a flyer or booklet and getting to explore.”

Open Up Sheffield is one of the largest events of its kind in the UK outside of London and has been celebrating art and textiles for 28 years.  

Artists and makers included sculptor Karin Hessenberg, who has been recently elected into The Society of Portrait Sculptors, and Mo Laycock OBE, who is a painter and textile artist. 

A large range of art was displayed including sculptures, abstract paintings, ceramics, photography, textiles and jewellery, as well as specialised crafts, including woodwork and metalwork. 

Open Up Sheffield is a non-profit organisation, with its sponsors being Sheffield City Council and Rivelin Co. 

A spokesperson from Rivelin Co said: “Open Up is a brilliant opportunity for artists to connect and share their process, and also invites Sheffield’s communities to discover the vibrant art being made on their doorstep.”

The venues were stationed all across the Sheffield area, from Hathersage and the Hope Valley to Barnsley.

Several studios were set up around Fulwood and Crookes, predominantly student areas, which worked as a great opportunity for a wholesome day out to observe artwork and get involved in the Sheffield community.

Hannah Wilson, 18, a law student at the University of Sheffield, said: “I came across Open Up Sheffield on Instagram and I thought it would be a lovely day out.

“There’s a lot of work being displayed, and it’s been a great opportunity to see the art of Sheffield, and observe different types of artwork and talk to the artists in their studios, while also exploring the city.”

For more information, click here: https://openupsheffield.co.uk/