North East Open Studios

NEOS 2013 ARTISTS AT THE WALDORF Workshop / Demo Programme

2013-08-31T12:25:00.001+01:00

NEOS 2013 ARTISTS AT THE WALDORF
14th - 22nd September 10-5pm

Venue : Aberdeen Waldorf School, Craigton Road, Cults, Aberdeen. AB15 9QD

'Opening Doors to Creativity' is the ethos of NEOS, in 2013 it is our reality!

Click on link below to see our extensive Workshop / Demonstration programme. Don't forget to book as places will be limited.

Artists at The Waldorf Workshop/Demo Programme

NEOS Dates for 2013 Announced!

2013-02-26T23:59:00.000+00:00

NEOS 2013: 7th - 29th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Are you an artist working in the North East of Scotland looking to take the next step?
Do you want to engage with your public, get feedback and demonstrate your skills?
Do you want an entry in a high quality, professional year-round directory, distributed to thousands of outlets and available for free, all year?
Do you wish to meet and network with other artists and be inspired by new work?

Then you should join North East Open Studios!
Our sign up starts on the 1st March and runs until the 31st March. Be sure to kept informed of our news by signing up to our newsletter
As the number of artists, galleries and art centres opening their doors during the traditional nine days of NEOS has grown we have decided to split the region of the North East into three distinct geographical areas taking place over a three week period. The 'North' section will open 7th - 15th September; 'Central' from 14th - 22nd, and Aberdeen City and South 21st - 29th. Venues will also have the option to be open throughout the whole 3 week period. The NEOS catalogue will include a map showing the different areas and will contain three sections for the different weeks with each artist being listed in their geographical area.

The 2013 NEOS Event will run from Saturday 7th September till Sunday 29th September.

- The 3 week event will be split into geographical areas – North, Central and South. Aberdeen City would be included in the South section.
- There will be overlapping weekends between weeks to maximise visitor numbers.
- The split will be as follows:

• North: Sat 7 – Sun 15 Sept
• Central: Sat 14 – Sun 22 Sept
• South & City: Sat 21 – Sun 29 Sept

If you wish to find out more about NEOS 2013 please go to our website: www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk or email us on: northeastopenstudios@gmail.com

North East Open Studios 2012 set to become the biggest one to date

2012-08-14T13:49:00.000+01:00

The popular North East Open Studios event is taking place once again in September this year and just under 300 local artists have signed up to be part of it.

Starting out as a small open studios event with a couple of dozen artists back in 2003, NEOS has since grown into the biggest open studios event in the whole of Scotland, currently competing for the largest in Britain.

The geographical spread is enormous: from Buckie on the Moray Coast down to Montrose and all the way inland to Braemar, visitors will be able to spot the characteristic yellow NEOS signs during the 9-day event held from 15-23 September.

Image: David Pettigrew

In uncertain financial times for many cultural organisations, the artist-led, voluntary NEOS organisation is self-sufficient, depending entirely on the joining fees for artists and a handful of advertisements in the catalogue.

NEOS chairwoman Morag McGee, a ceramicist and participant herself says:” At a time where so many arts
organisations are struggling for funding, NEOS is continuing to grow, move forward and be as successful as ever, which is a fantastic advert for the arts and artists of the North East.”

With its thousands of visitors touring around the North East, NEOS is contributing greatly to the local economies too.

Although the majority of NEOS entrants are individual artists opening their studio doors to the public including
painters, photographers, jewelers and ceramicists, there are also a number of groups displaying work in joint venues this year, such as wood turners and mental health art groups. Hands-on demonstrations, live music and sculpture trails are often organised by the artists themselves to add to the 'NEOS experience'.

In addition to the wide range of artistic media that people are showing off, there is also a huge range of ages amongst participants. NEOS’s youngest entrant is 5-year old photographer Nadine Ralston, sharing the NEOS catalogue with several artists well into their 80s - but still as passionate about their work as ever.

Morag McGee loves the unexpectedness of NEOS: “You never know what you’re going to find next when visiting NEOS artists. Each year people are welcomed into the most weird and wonderful ‘studio spaces’; from village halls to living rooms, sheds at the bottom of a garden and even a toilet as a gallery. I think this is one of the greatest charms of an open studios event like this.”

Dundee's Brightest

2012-05-23T08:39:00.001+01:00

Dundee’s Brightest 20/05/2012

It's been a few years since I've made it to the opening night of Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art in Dundee, so I was pretty excited to have the opportunity to go this year. Accompanied by my trusty accomplice from my own student days at art school in Dundee we set off up the Perth Road to the art school, a well trodden path. A few steps in the door and we were met with a large yellow neon sign which read 'ART NOW' and the smell of popcorn.

Armed with my newly purchased brochure for the 2012 show whereby students are referred to as Dundee’s Brightest. Each page features a student, their statement and an image of their work. I'm thinking that things have gotten pretty slick since my day and I’m impressed. First stop is jewellery of course. There are 18 students this year so there was a lot to see. 'Wow' is my first impression as I wander around. We are stopping a lot and saying 'ooh' and 'aw, look at that', it all looks so professional!

I am struck by how polished (not literally) it all looks and how ready they all look to take on the world with their neat business cards and look books. It's pretty packed, so I'm guessing I'm not alone in thinking how good it all looks. Each individuals work is supported by an artist’s statement and a mac rotating images. There's a real broad mix of themes here. From Palestinian refugees, skin conditions, literature and the tooth fairy. So I’m only going to mention a few. Jennifer Ho's beautiful intricate jewellery is presented against a backdrop of equally beautiful drawings which narrate the story of her work based on family, culture and memories.

Jennifer Ho

A quick chat with Natali Mazur and she explains that her series of cleverly designed bracelets are made from prescription drugs and silver, which she says is a response to todays view of the preciousness of materials and the misuse of prescription medication in today’s society.

Natali Mazur

Karen Smith's work which she describes as 'wearable optical toys', are both skilfully made and stunning.

From here I managed a quick look at textiles which was also very impressive. A great feature throughout some of the departments was separate portfolio rooms. This helped create a clean gallery style without the clutter of the portfolios.
My only disappointment was that I managed to miss the singing Elvis reported to be belting out some tunes on a golden toilet. I could have stayed longer, however the steward/security teams were super efficient at getting everyone out by 9pm on the dot. They made up for it by seeing everyone off the premises with a Taiko drumming session by The Dojo Performance Team. Well worth a visit.

On from 19th - 27th May 2012 at DJCAD, University of Dundee, 13 Perth Road, Dundee, DD1 4HT.

Aubin Stewart is our first guest blogger and Exhibitions Coordinator for NEOS 2012

A Jaunt to North Fife...

2012-05-08T23:14:00.001+01:00

NEOS 2012: 15th - 23rd September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

A Jaunt to Fife.....

Well, a weekend in Falkirk presented an opportunity for a flying visit to Open Studios North Fife. This is OSNF's seventh year with an ever growing audience and artist membership. 84 artists opened their doors to living rooms and studios to show their work, working practices and offer a staggering amount of tea and cakes over the May weekend.

I only just realised that my friends Gavin Burnett and Nicola Cairns were having the grand opening of MAKE Studios at Gateside Mills in Fife, where they have worked incredibly hard to bring together a hot and cold glass workshop, ceramics workshop and gallery space as well as space for other artists to work, the result is spectacular and would be one of the highlights of the OSNF's weekend.

First surprise was seeing Richard Gregory who is one half of Rebott with Nicola Cairns. Richard introduced us to the Rebox project where they are converting an old horsebox into a mobile gallery and hotshop for working glass. Everything in the bos is from recycled materials - even down to the screws which were painstakingly salvaged by Richard himself!

Inside the studio, there were glass demos, tours and their resident graffiti artist was just finishing the Make mural.

After spending far too much money we decided to take a wee look at the entrants in Auchtermuchty, which we were happy to find out was the birthplace of Sir Jimmy Shand, this gave me the opportunity to tell my Grandads favourite joke....
First stop was Audrey Reid, a recent jewellery graduate from Duncan of Jordanstone. We walked into her beautiful cottage in the centre of Auchtermuchty to find absolutely lovely jewellery, in fact it was so good we visited twice.
Next was Bun Brough a textile artst who works primarily as an art therapist. The studio was above a car mechanic but the space was transformed by a partially built Yurt and many pieces made by her clients and during workshops she delivers.

Steve and Marie Louise Wrightson opened their sunny back yard with summerhouses ful of whimsical and colourful work. Both had a huge amount of detail in their work.
As we were leaving Auchtermuchty we came across a wee sign for a blacksmiths forge and stumbled over a chap who built his own forge and makes ironmongery in his spare time - it was great to see and have a poke about the tools!

Just outside Auchtermuchty we stopped at Moyra Stewart's ceramic workshop who was also showing with John Smith, woodturner. Moyra has been incredibly influenced by a process called 'naked Raku' (dont worry, you get to keep your clothes on) after attending a course run by renowned ceramicist Dave Roberts. Moyra was kind enough to don her protective equipment shortly before the raku kiln reached temperature!

Beautiful Falkland was our next stop where we visited two more ceramicists - Joan Potts and the tremendous renaissance-y work of Karen Ross.

Neither Karen or Joan have websites and do not work full time in ceramics but they both took the leap into the unknown of Open Studios and opened their homes to complete strangers. This is the joy of open studios, not knowing and seeing people genuinely interested in your work and workshops.

After a walk around Falkland, it was time to go back and hardly a dent made in the 84 entries (with a strong emphasis on visiting ceramics too!)

However, some artists are open next weekend and I cannot recommend the area enough. Its rather a novelty to be able to VISIT Open Studios for a change!

CALL OUT!!!!
If you have an idea for a guest blog post, just get in contact with us at northeastopenstudios@gmail.com
If there is something exciting coming up or if you are about to go away to an event, and want to let us all know about it, just drop us an email and remember to take photos. We can deal with the rest...
Its our network so time to make it work for us!

M

Want to take part in NEOS ["match-making" artists / venues]

2012-03-28T12:14:00.000+01:00

Call for Artists/ Venues

Want to take part in NEOS, but would feel more comfortable showing in a more formal venue?Or are you a venue which would like to take part in NEOS, but you’re not sure how to source and approach an artist?This is a final call-out for YOU – send your details to northeastopenstudios@gmail.com – and we will add them to our “match-making list”, which will be sent out on Friday… hopefully we can help you find your perfect NEOS partner, and make sure everyone can take part.

NEOS 2012: 15th - 23rd September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

NEOS 2012 Sign Up is....OPEN!

2012-03-12T22:05:00.000+00:00

NEOS 2012: 15th - 23rd September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Well....Sign Up is Open!

Hello from your new committee!

It’s our happy job to announce that sign up for NEOS 2012 is officially

OPEN - you have until Saturday 14th April 2012 to complete your entry,

send your image and payment.

Heres the link to the sign up page...

You will notice there’s a few changes and streamlining of the

application process this year as well as the usual self-proofing.

This is NEOS’s 9th year and its developed into Scotland’s biggest Open

Studios event as well as being one of the biggest in the UK!

We, the new committee wanted to stay true to the original NEOS ethos

and for this year, focus on our strongest feature – our booklet. As

you all know it’s a year-round directory and comprehensive arts

listing, enabling anyone to pick it up and be able to contact artists

and galleries all year round. You will see that we have tightened up

the application criteria to ensure that this is still the case in

2012.

We have also streamlined our contact information – our one-stop-shop

for all enquiries is northeastopenstudios@gmail.com

Several committee members check this email every day and it really is

the most efficient way to get in contact with us.

The new committee have been working hard to get this all on track for

you and we thought we would let you know a bit about us and be able to

see the fabulous skills and experience NEOS gets on a voluntary basis

from its core committee members, first up in this bulletin is our Chair

- Morag

NEOS Chairperson – Morag McGee

Morag is a ceramicist who lectures at both Grays School of Art and

Banff and Buchan College, she has taught and developed arts activities

for schools, councils and community groups all around the North East as

well as developing her own practice. As well as showing in Galleries

around the country, Morag is also involved in public arts projects and

feels she is well placed to take NEOS forward in 2012. Passionate,

enthusiastic and organised. Morag has been picking up all the NEOS

thread these past few weeks in order to hit the ground running for

2012. Her motto…. “Bring it on!”

Happy Sign-Up Folks

The NEOS Committee

2012-03-09T17:38:00.000+00:00

NEOS 2012: 15th - 23rd September 2012

Call for Artists:

Blairs Museum is always looking for artists to exhibit in the space at the back of the beautiful church in the peaceful surroundings at Blairs.

We are currently seeking artists who work in different types of media (fine art, print, sculpture, ceramics, mixed media, photography) to take the opportunity to utilise the space and serenity 4 miles out of the city centre on the South Deeside Road. Remember!

Blairs is also seeking artists to show during NEOS 2012, so grab the chance to be organised before sign up happens!

Please contact Vikki on 01224 863767 if you are interested at any time of the year.

Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

NEOS AGM

2012-01-30T21:09:00.001+00:00

The AGM has just been confirmed for Saturday the 18th of February from 10am - 1pm at Airyhall Community Centre on Countesswells Rd, Aberdeen, AB15 8AD.

As ever there will be a chance to network with other creative individuals and to vote for new members of the committee.

Refreshments will also be served.

RSVP: northeastopenstudios@googlemail.com
or on the NEOS FaceBook AGM Event (soon to be posted), but please do NOT telephone the committee.
https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/302559721861

We look forward to seeing you at this year's AGM.

SOS ~ Save Open Studios

2012-01-30T21:07:00.001+00:00

Since its inception in 2003, NEOS has grown amazingly and now beginning its 9th year NEOS urgently needs the membership to help make sure NEOS still continues to thrive.

North East Open Studios will be losing 8 of the 12 committee members at this year's AGM.

This is major news and will certainly have a detrimental effect on the future of NEOS if the membership cannot help.
No committee means no NEOS 2012!

URGENT CALL FOR NEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS!

If you are interested in joining the committee, or know of someone who is, we will shortly be sending out role descriptions for each position listed below for you to consider, as well as nomination forms to be returned.
Please feel free to forward this information on to anyone you think may be interested.

We ask you to consider your commitment to the committee and the membership carefully if you do wish to fill one of the positions available. NEOS has been very lucky to have a supportive, proactive and attentive volunteer team
and needs this to continue, it does not need sleeping members!

Roles to fill: Chairperson, Treasurer, Coordinator, Graphic Design & Web, Secretary, Minutes Secretary, and Press & Social Media.

News update from the AB+ Cultural Conference

2011-12-22T10:00:00.001+00:00

If you haven’t signed up (by e-mailing aberdeen.positive@gmail.com) then hopefully this update will convince you that this is a conference not to be missed. An opportunity for your voice to be heard in driving the future of the arts and culture in Aberdeen.
We’re pleased to report that our main speakers have confirmed their attendance. Charles Landry, an authority on urban futures and the use of creative approaches to enable cities achieve farsighted aims, will be joined by Valerie Watts, Chief Executive of Aberdeen City Council and Professor Paul Harris, Head of Gray’s School of Art.

Valerie will be describing her experiences in Northern Ireland with Londonderry’s bid to become European Capital of Culture and the impact this had on the arts there, whilst Paul will talk about bringing the V&A to Dundee.

Of course, whilst the speakers are important, the vital element will be your participation in the two workshop sessions and we’ll have more details of these – and the subjects to be discussed – in the new year.

Some people have been asking us what time the conference starts and finishes. The answer is 9.15 for coffee and registration for a 10.00 a.m. start and close of business at 5.00 p.m. although there will then be an hour’s social and a glass of wine for those that want to network. We’ll bring you further news about the conference nearer the time, but in the meantime, could you please complete a short survey, regardless of whether you intend to come to the conference or otherwise?

The survey can be found at http://positiveaberdeen.wordpress.com/questionnaire . You should choose whether to answer as an individualor on behalf of an organisation (NOT both please!). The survey results will help us plan exactly how the conference runs so if you could please please please complete the survey by the end of the year, that would be very helpful. Thanks in anticipation of your co-operation!

Finally, if you haven’t signed up for the conference, the e-mail address again is aberdeen.positive@gmail.com.
Best regards,

Aberdeen Positive (AB+)

2011-11-17T10:44:00.001+00:00

AB+

… an invitation to the forthcoming Aberdeen Positive (AB+) Conference which will take place on the 26th of January 2012 at Aberdeen Arts Centre.

This conference is the idea of a group of arts organisations and practitioners working in Aberdeen and the wider region with the overarching aim of making a ‘step-change’ in the cultural life of the city. We want this conference to celebrate what we currently do well and to challenge us to improve, to think big and ultimately help identify the steps we need to take to reach our ambitions.

Further info

Further details about the conference and booking details are contained in the invite letter (download from here) – please feel free to pass this letter of invitation on to colleagues and contacts who are interested developing the cultural life of this area.

If you have any problems opening the invite please contact aberdeen.positive@gmail.com

NEOS CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR @ BV

2011-11-08T10:52:00.001+00:00

For the third year Bridge View Gallery is offering craftspeople and maker members of NEOS the opportunity to set up a stall at the opening of their Christmas show on 1st December. (6-8pm)
I would like to invite you to take part in the fair. Tables are booked on a first come basis and space is limited so early booking is essential .

Once again a booking fee of £5 will go directly to NEOS funds for the next years event.

Set up will be the afternoon of Thursday 1st December

Commission of 35% with 10% going to NEOS funds
　
I do hope you will consider taking part as this helps keep NEOS and the individuals participating in the public eye throughout the year.

book your place by contacting francescrawford@yahoo.co.uk
www.bridge-view.co.uk

Frances Crawford Art
Art Leasing Consultancy
Allathumpach
Glen Deskry
Strathdon
AB36 8XL
tel: 01975651719

Ythanvale Art Trail

2011-09-08T14:49:00.002+01:00

As Part of your North East Open studios 2011 tour, experience the Ythan Vale Art Trail and enjoy a diverse range of art from over 20 North East artists; whilst exploring the delightful scenery of the river valley and coastal villages or this beautiful corner of Aberdeenshire.

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

SSW NEOS times

2011-09-08T09:00:00.002+01:00

SSW opens the doors for NEOS

The Lost Hand

September 10 to 18, 2011

As part of NEOS (North East Open Studios), Scottish Sculpture Workshop are running a series of events around the theme of arts and heritage craft skills. Over the eight days members of the public are welcome to come and view our unique facilities, take part in discussions, tours, and workshops; enjoy a cup of tea in our drop in cafe, as well as view our invited participants at work around the SSW site.

Invited artists, tradesmen and craftsmen from throughout Aberdeenshire, with skills that are considered exceptional, will be showcasing their craft on site at SSW. With a focus on skills that are inherently local, SSW is looking to open up a discussion about the relevance of these skills to the identity of Aberdeenshire and wider Scottish culture, while also looking into the future of craftsmanship.

From kilt making to stone work, from wheel writing to sign writing, what is the future for these skills and processes? How can they be preserved? How are they utilised and can they be utilised in the creation of art works? SSW are looking to find the common ground shared by all these craftsmen, and artists, through networking, discussion and a shared workspace of tools and processes.

Programme of Events

September 10 to 18, 2011

Saturday 10th

Art Cafe – 5 to 7pm
"The Lost Hand: Questions around skill."
In the informal environment of a pop-up cafe, a discussion around the status quo of skill will bring together artists, crafts and trades people, as well as the general public.
FREE

Sunday 11th

Demonstrations and tours – 12 to 6pm
“The Lost Hand: Skills in residency”
A kiltmaker, a stone carver, a wheelwright, a traditional painter and decorator, a ceramicist, an upholsterer and many more will be working at SSW, giving an insight into current practices and skills in the region.
FREE

Monday 12th

Workshop – 1 to 4pm
''Printing Matters''
Lumsden primary school 4 to 7's will be exploring printing the old fashioned way.

Tuesday 13th

Art Cafe – 2 to 5pm
"Skilling Up: Creativity in new contexts"
In the informal environment of a pop-up cafe, a discussion around the status quo of skill will bring together artists, crafts and trades people, as well as the general public.
FREE

Wednesday 14th

Art Cafe – 2 to 5pm
"Space to speak"
In the informal environment of a pop-up cafe, a discussion around the status quo of skill will bring together artists, crafts and trades people, as well as the general public.
FREE

Thursday 15th

Closed to the public

Friday 16th

Reading Group SSW / Gradcam – 3.30 to 6.30pm
"The Skills as a kind of Commons" (Closed event)

Cheesecake Making Workshop – 6.30 to 7.30pm
(Please book with the SSW Office on 01464 861372, as there are limited places).
FREE

Saturday 17th

Forum/Discussion – 2 to 5pm
"A culture for the survival of skills, skills for the survival of a culture."
Chaired by David Watson Hood
Dr. Jo Vergunst (Anthropology Department - University of Aberdeen)
Andrea Peach (Grays School of Art)
An open discussion about the status quo of heritage craft skill, in social and economic terms (focusing on the Grampian region). Also looking at how these skills relate to and are used in contemporary art practice.
FREE (limited places)

Sunday 18th

Demonstrations and tours – 12 to 6pm
"The Lost Hand: Skills in residency"
A kiltmaker, a stone carver, a wheelwright, a traditional painter and decorator, a ceramicist, an upholsterer and many more will be working at SSW, giving an insight into current practices and skills in the region.
FREE

Communities Potluck Dinner – 5 to 7pm
Join us for a celebratory potluck. Participants must bring a dish, please contact Merlyn Riggs at merlynriggs@yahoo.co.uk to book a place as there are limited places.

Participants:

Skills in Residence: Ally Sim, Graham Sim, Pam Blackhall, Wayne Gosset, Keith Mellard, Eden Jolly, Nancy Fuller, Sally McLardy, Jennifer Jane, Ally Devine, Gavin Smith, Ian McDonald.

Art Cafe: Merlyn Riggs

Printing Matters Workshop: Ross Hamilton Frew

Forum/Discussion chair: David Watson Hood

NEOS DeeTour Day!

2011-09-06T21:37:00.005+01:00

A NEOS DeeTour Day - Monday 12th Sept

This year’s North East Open Studios (NEOS) promises to be the best yet with over 1,000 exhibitors. Founded in 2003 - NEOS has gone from strength to strength making it Scotland's largest open studios.
An award winning, not for profit collective of artists, makers and galleries in the North East of Scotland invite the public into their workshops to let them see how their work is created.
Art lovers have the chance to meet hundreds of painters, sculptors, metalworkers and print-makers during the event which runs from the 10th to the 18th Sept.

This year also sees the first organised NEOS tour, so that visitors can experience a day of NEOS on Royal Deeside. The event for 16 people has been specially compiled by DeeTour a newly formed company by Moira Gash and Sarah Harker.

Billed as a great opportunity to relax & enjoy the delights of a hand-picked selection of crafts and artists, the day tickets are priced at £35 and will include refreshments and a light lunch.
DeeTour is a new tour and excursion business based on Royal Deeside, and intends to offer a selection of packages to suit visitors and locals alike.

For more details on either DeeTour or to book tickets for the NEOS tour please visit www.deetour.co.uk or contact Sarah at The Butterworth Gallery on Tel 013398 86104.

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk

Hilary Duncan's NEOS Pottery Workshops

2011-09-06T18:23:00.002+01:00

Hilary Duncan ~ Ceramics ~ Entry Number 75

Hilary will be holding some pottery workshops during NEOS to give people a chance to try throwing a pot on the wheel, and to hand-build a small piece.
There will be further workshops after NEOS for those wanting to decorate and glaze their pieces, or Hilary will do this for you for a small fee. Places are limited, so please phone early to book.

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Opening Invitation to NEOS @ Oriel Art

2011-09-06T17:57:00.003+01:00

You and your friends are warmly invited to the
Opening of the North East Open Studios at Oriel Art

6 to 9pm Wednesday 7th September (food & drink refreshments)

Continues daily to Sunday 18th September.

New work from Patricia Reith & Wilma Dunbar, plus many artists and crafts people.

Also: partake in the Art Workshop on Friday 9th September in aid of UNICEF

Looking forward to seeing you all again. 10% from sales to UNICEF

THERE ARE STILL 3 PLACES LEFT ON THIS WORKSHOP
BOOKING IS ESSENTIAL, PLEASE PHONE:

Patricia Reith
Oriel Art, Barnyards,
Easterskene,
Westhill,
Aberdeenshire
AB32 6YB

Tel: 01224 743575

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September ~ Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Michael Kitchen venue

2011-09-06T09:49:00.001+01:00

North East Open Studies (NEOS) 2011 - Change of Venue for Michael Kitchen

Michael has moved from Wood of Shaws and his paintings will be on display at Grayling’, 4 Links View, Inverboyndie, Banff.

Dates : From Saturday 10th – Sunday 18th September (except 14th - CLOSED). Timings : Daily 10am – 5pm except Sundays 2 – 6pm.

For enquiries and directions call : 01261 818855

NEOS Yellow Signs ...

2011-09-05T17:46:00.005+01:00

PLEASE HELP US HELP YOU!

We are very aware that this is EXTREMELY last minute, but due to various delays our road posters will be ready for collection from Wednesday 7th at Mill Farm, Kemnay, AB51 5NY (entry #121). As much as we need to get the posters to you all in good time before the 10th, the simple fact is that we cannot. So, we call to you, our members for your help and fantastic support!
If you could try to club together & arrange somebody in your area to volunteer to collect enough signs for your area, that would be amazing!
Please contact info@northeastopenstudios.co.uk to arrange pick up, or if you need any further help we will try to advise as best as we can.

NEOS covers a huge area, so please don’t be greedy and think of others too. Previous participants should have their signs from last year, if for some reason you need new, we have allowed for up to 2 signs per venue.

Aberdeenshire: New entries 3 signs
Aberdeen City: ONLY 2 signs per VENUE.. Not entries

If that is impossible & you don’t have any Yellow Signs, fear not! You can download the template from the website at www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk/downloads.asp, and simply print it off on yellow paper and laminate it!

SIGNAGE INSTRUCTIONS!

NEOS has worked very hard to build a good relationship with the Council’s Road Department to allow you to draw attention to your location by the use of our NEOS signage (the NEOS yellow signs). In order to ensure compliance with Aberdeen City & Aberdeenshire Council's rules on temporary signage for events please read below.

We have to point out that NEOS is not responsible for its members conduct and it is the individuals’ responsibility to adhere to the rules, as any action taken by the authorities for non compliance will be to individual venues and not NEOS.

A) Any signage on private property (in gardens, on houses, in cars) is permitted.
B) Signs on traffic signs, railings, and pedestrian crossings are NOT permitted. In fact, signs placed on any Road/Traffic Information furniture are considered a grave hazard and are illegal.
C) The Roads Department will advise their city and community inspectors not to remove NEOS signage if it is compliant with these instructions.

ABERDEEN CITY SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR NEOS SIGNS
Each location venue will be allowed to display one NEOS (A3 & no bigger) sign on each of a maximum of two street lamps - one outside their venue and one at their closest road junction (providing it is not a major junction).
1) The signs should be attached to the lamp post as high as possible. Preferably 2.4m above ground level.
2) Directional arrows drawn on the signs should be made as large as possible and the venue number MUST be recorded in the top right hand corner.
3) The signs can be put up 1-2 days in advance of 10th September and must be removed 1-2 days after 18th September.
4) NO banners permitted.
5) Signs not removed by the artists will be removed by Aberdeen City Council and the cost of removal will be charged to member.

ABERDEENSHIRE SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR NEOS SIGNS
Each location venue will be allowed to display up to 4 NEOS signs (A3 & no bigger).
1) Directional arrows drawn on the signs should be made as large as possible and the venue number MUST be recorded in the top right hand corner.
2) The signs can be put up 1-2 days in advance of 10th September and must be removed 1-2 days after 18th September.
3) Signs not removed by the artists will be removed by Aberdeenshire Council and the cost of removal will be charged to member.
4) Please read the guidelines set out by Aberdeenshire Road’s Department at:
www.aberdeenshire.gov.uk/roads/maintenance/GuidelinesonUnauthorisedSigns.pdf
Thank you for all your help and good luck with your show!

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Pitscurry Public Art Project

2011-08-31T10:07:00.003+01:00

On Saturday 10th September Pitscurry Environmental Project will be hosting a metal casting event and creating a public artwork for the garden as part of North East Open Studios.

Over the day we will be taking molds of hands and casting them in aluminium for an installation within the gardens.
Please come along and lend us your hands by contributing to the artwork. Learn how to make a mold and participate in a metal casting demonst...ration - for a donation of £10 to the project.

Artist Ginny Hutchison will be running two workshops, from 10am-12pm and 2-4pm.
15 places are available on each workshop, so please book ahead!

Also on Saturday 10th will be a woodcarving demonstration from artist Keiji Nagahiro, using both chainsaw and hand tools.

We have work on show and for sale, created by clients who attend the project, from drawings, prints and crafts, to bronze snails made in conjuction with SSW.

The project will also be open to the public from Monday 12th to Saturday 17th September, from 10am-3pm daily.

Entry is free, tea, coffee and cake available - we look forward to seeing you!

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

PVAF FORUM 2011

2011-08-31T09:57:00.001+01:00

PVAF FORUM 2011
8th and 9th October 2011

Dear Artists,

We are delighted and quite proud to be able to invite you to attend another power-packed PVAF forum in October!

We have strived to continue with all the things we most enjoy about our events, including another Members' Exhibition, and in addition, this year we will be spending only the 1st day at the Birnam Institute before we burst free on Sunday for an exciting 'Out & About' programme commencing at Perth Museum and Art Gallery!

So... all you have to do now is:

1. Put the dates in your diary, in your smartphone and on your calender.

2. Read all the attached documents carefully:

Booking form
Forum Info (important!)
Forum Programme
Members' Exhibition Info

3. Print and fill out the booking form.

4. Send it and your cheque off to the address at the top.

5. Produce something you'd love to see in the always-great Members' Exhibition.

6. Dig out that box of unwanted art materials/catalogues etc that's cluttering up the spare room (see info sheet).

7. Tell all your professional artist/maker friends and direct them to www.pvaf.org.uk .

8. Get terribly excited and goosebumpy!

We are looking forward to seeing you there!

PVAF Committee 2011

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

South Aberdeenshire Abstracts at Aberdeen Arts Centre

2011-08-26T09:23:00.000+01:00

Art Show on the Path to Abstraction launches on Thursday evening, 1st September, 6 - 8pm and is open daily from 2nd - 26th September at Aberdeen Arts Centre, 33 King Street, Aberdeen AB24 5AA.

Ground-breaking work is the aim of an inspired collective of artists based in North East Scotland, and their new exhibition at Aberdeen Arts Centre will be their best yet. South Aberdeenshire Abstracts, SABAB, has invited some experienced friends from the art world to select their paintings to make a fine display for their latest show entitled Path to Abstraction.
It will run from 2nd September to 26th, including this year’s North East Open Studios (NEOS) - no. 244 in the free brochure that’s out now.

SABAB members Angela Arnold‚ Michi Clark‚ Gay Halley‚ Pam Hamilton‚ Janice Headrick‚ Julia Macaulay‚ Kate MacKenzie‚ Pauline Newman‚ Jacky Niven‚ Gregor Phillips and Bern Ross, are all keen artists who work independently and join together to put on abstract exhibitions whenever possible. They find the support and friendship within the group very helpful and one of their discussion meetings triggered the title for the show: Path to Abstraction.

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Claremont Studio Exhibition Invitation

2011-08-26T08:50:00.004+01:00

Tracey Johnston is exhibiting new paintings inspired by Andalusia and hosting a series of creative workshops at Claremont Studio as part of North East Open Studios, 10-18th September.

You and your guests are invited to the launch party on Saturday 10th September, from 2-5pm where Tracey will be demonstrating the art of Suminagashi Monoprinting.

Creative Workshops:

Paper Marbling- Simple Suminagashi Monoprinting

Sunday 11th September, 2 to 4pm.
Tuesday 13th September, 2 to 4pm and 7 to 9pm.
Suitable for beginners, materials supplied and complimentary refreshments. £35

The word 'Suminagashi' translates literally as 'spilled ink' and centuries before the art of marbling paper was practiced in western cultures, Japanese craftsmen created patterns by floating ink on the surface of water and transferring it to a sheet of paper. Because the nature of water is ever changing and constantly moving, Suminagashi printers are viewed as great masters of control. Each monoprint is like a fingerprint - unique and unreproduceable.

This workshop will teach you the art of Suminagashi and you will produce many different monoprints to use for end papers and covers in our creative Bookbinding course or for other creative paper crafts at home.

Creative Bookbinding

Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th September, 2 to 4pm.
Suitable for beginners, materials supplied and complimentary refreshments. £35
Use your beautifully marbled papers as book covers and end papers in our Bookbinding Workshop.
In this workshop you will learn how to make your own folded keepsake book using various papers, book board and ribbon.

North East Open Studios runs this year from 10th to 18th September.
Claremont Studio is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm.

For further information and to book a place on our Workshops please contact Tracey at the gallery: 01224 596999.

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Tracey's work can be viewed until 21st September.

NEOS 2011: 10th - 18th September
Visit www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk for more information

Pushing Out the Boat – Issue 11 Call for Submissions

2011-08-14T22:19:00.000+01:00

Deadine: 1st october 2011

Submissions of writing and artwork are invited for Issue 11 of Pushing Out the Boat, North-East Scotland’s acclaimed magazine of prose, poetry and visual arts. Subject to funding, Issue 11 will be published in late Spring 2012, with the possibility of an online version to follow.

WRITING:
Send up to three poems and/or up to two prose/playscript pieces in English, Doric or Scots.

ARTWORK:
Send up to three images (colour and/or black-and-white) of 2- or 3-dimensional work – including line drawings, illustrations, photographs, etc.

Submission is by email only: for details of how to submit your work go to the Pushing Out the Boat website at http://www.pushingouttheboat.co.uk/submissions

Successful entrants will receive a copy of the magazine and an invitation to read or display their work at the launch event to be held in late Spring 2012.