Shortly to embark on its fourth successive year, Perthshire Open Studios (POS) throws open its multitude of doors on Saturday 3 September.  This year there is more than ever on offer, with a record number of 180 artists showing in 122 venues across Perth & Kinross. 
In the now established format, the studios are grouped roughly by geographical area making it easier to plan a trip, taking in several different venues in one day. 

 
New Venues
On the ‘Red Route’, which covers the Highland Perthshire area, there are 12 new venues, offering a wide range of media including textiles, painting, wood-turning and ceramics.  Several of these are located along the road linking Weem, Fortingall and Fearnan, such as Duneaves Studio where Marianne Dey Struthers’ paintings are on show (right). 
Further east are the Killiecrankie Studio (featuring Edward Davidson’s wildlife and landscape painting and photos) and Roobedo in Moulin where Ruth Morris produces imaginative pieces from Harris tweed, inspired by the sea and shore (pictured). 
Elsewhere, visitors will find venues offering anything from handmade chocolates and soap to jewellery, furniture, ceramics and metal animal sculptures.

Open Participation
Originally inspired by a visit to Dumfries & Galloway’s “Spring Fling” in 2007, POS was created by local artist Luisa Ramazzotti who explained:  “Having worked mainly on my own, I didn’t realise how many active artists there were in Perthshire, but we had 50 at the first AGM in early 2008, and just decided then to get on and do it, and make people believe in it.” 
POS  doesn’t have a selection process – anyone can participate by paying a fee, and Luisa added:  “The most important thing is that it is launched, going strong and there are more artists joining.” 
She has stepped down as Chair, although supports from the sidelines, and has been replaced by photographic artist Dave Hunt from Wildgrass Studio just outside Killin. 
Dave remarked: “This event is a unique opportunity for the visiting public to meet the artists behind the work, and experience their creative environment. Many artists work away in garden studios and spare rooms and rarely get the chance to meet their admiring public, something that can be as valuable as actually making sales.
“The steady growth of Open Studios since its creation in 2007 is a testament to its continued success. We aim to support not only the established artists and galleries, but also those looking for a platform to gain recognition. 
“This is often the appeal both to locals and visitors, as it offers such a diverse range of artists’ and makers’ work, many of whom may be as yet ‘undiscovered’”.
A Taster Exhibition, showing a selection of members’ work, will be held at The Barn Gallery, The Bield, Blackruthven from Wed 31 August.  For a free brochures, please call 01738-477834, or download it from www.perthshireopenstudios.com.  Studios will be open from 3-11 September.