It was back in 2002 that I first took part in the Surrey Artists Open Studios. The scheme was in its infancy with 150 artists participating. Both visitors and artists have increased in number over the years and much of its success is due to the insight that punters get into the life of the artist. Many of the participants give demonstrations and run workshops to share their passion for their chosen art form.

This year 266 artists are opening their doors to the public. I will be open every day of the event between 11am and 5pm. I am giving a free talk on the Seven Ages of Man on Saturday 3rd June at 3pm. Home-made lemonade and some baked goodies (to be decided) will be on offer. The talk will take place in the gallery space in the garden. The new parquet floor (currently over a thousand separate pieces of wood) will be finished by then. Crikey! I’d better get a move on!

Visit at least four studios and you can vote for your favourite artist. I was the winner of Surrey Artist of the Year in 2014 and a runner up in 2016. The Open Studios are taking place across Surrey from 3-18th June. There is a free App this year to locate studios that are open. For more details see the website http://surreyopenstudios.org.uk.