Jan 10 2013 Flintshire Chronicle
ORGANISERS of the largest open studio event in Wales are looking for talented artists to take part in this year’s Helfa Gelf Art Trail.
In September craftmakers in Flintshire, Gwynedd, Conwy, Denbighshire and Wrexham will open up their studios each weekend to the public.
The annual event is a unique chance for visitors to catch a glimpse of the creative process and get to chat to the artists and crafts people, see the beautiful and varied locations of the studios and buy works directly from the makers.
Helfa Gelf Art Trail project co-ordinator Sabine Cockrill said: “We are the largest open studios event in Wales and we are always excited when new artists join us.”
More than 300 artists took part in the event – which attracted more than 14,000 visitors in 2012. Artists benefited from selling more than £47,000 worth of art during the event.
“Last year the event had a 20% rise in visitor numbers and a 70% rise in sales made during September, this is a great improvement from 2011 and we hope 2013 will be an exciting year for Helfa Gelf,” added Sabine.
Master upholsterer and upcycled furniture designer Laura Capper, from Laura’s Attic, says she is already looking forward to this year’s event after welcoming 145 visitors to her studio in Mold last September.
“I am taking part in Helfa Gelf again this year as last year was fantastic. I had a number of local artists visit my studio in September and I encouraged them to join the event in 2013,” said Laura.
“Being part of a big event, you benefit from press coverage, advertising, the local network and art tourism. Visitors are always interested in your work and this is where the artistic conversation begins.”
The eighth annual Helfa Gelf Art Trail will be held on September 6-8, 13-15, 20-22 and 27-29.
The online application process is now open and all applications must be received by March 1 to join the event.
Further information on how to apply and the application form are available at www.helfagelf.co.uk.
For help with the online application form email help@helfagelf.co.uk.