Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the variety of creative talents and skills in Ryedale, from painting, printing, drawing and photography to ceramics, textiles, metalwork and willow weaving, with more than 40 artists participating on July 23 and 24, and July 30 and 31.

The Open Studios weekends are organised by Vault Arts Centre, a Community Interest Company founded to develop arts activities and events in the Ryedale area. Its founders and directors are Kirkbymoorside-based Layla Khoo, a ceramicist who will also taking part in the open weekends; former art teacher Kirsty Kirk, who co-founded and ran a series of successful makers markets in East London; and Petra Young, who works at Forestry England as funding and development manager. 

Phillip Spurr of Ryedale District Council says: “Arts and culture in Ryedale is key to our identity – it nourishes the roots of our communities and helps make the district what it is. I’d encourage residents and visitors alike to attend the Open Studios event to support our arts and culture industry.”

Each of the 42 artists involved will open their studios from 10am to 5pm during both weekends. Find out more about them here, where there is also a printable map and handbook available for download.