ARTISTS have opened their studios so art lovers can meet them in a relaxed atmosphere and find out more about their work.

Artists in Four Marks, Hawkley, Bordon, Petersfield, Froxfield, Greatham and Alton are among those inviting people to visit during the annual Hampshire Open Studios fortnight which starts on Saturday, August 22.

Although in the wake of the coronavirus criss there maybe fewer visitors, participating artists say this means more time to chat to guests.

Hawkley artist Tim Mullins said: “It is a great opportunity for artists and those who enjoy art to meet and chat, and learn more about what inspires us, and how we work.”

Four Marks artist Sophie Bartlett added: “It’s lovely to meet people in such a relaxed and informal way. I open my studio and the ground floor of my house so visitors can see how my paintings work in a kitchen or living room for example, so they have free run of my house, which can be quite nerve racking – but it also means I have to do the housework every day!”

Although many of the studios are open to everyone all day, some are appointment only.

Hawkley artist Jenny Hill-Norton said: “I thought it would be nice if visitors booked, so I could set aside time to speak them for as long as they like.

“I wanted them to feel comfortable, and not worried about health issues.”

For details visit the website at www.hampshireopenstudios.org.uk/