Crickhowell Open Studios 2024 Guide

CRiC: Community and Open Studios Hub

The creativity and art on display during this year’s Open Studios Weekend are varied and inspiring and the staff and volunteers here at CRiC look forward to warmly welcoming visitors to linger over a coffee, enjoy the Oriel CRiC Gallery’s Open Art Exhibition and to plan a route to explore some of this year’s 24 venues.

Jan Morgan, Centre

Manager

Crickhowell Resource and Information Centre

Beaufort Street

Crickhowell

NP8 1BN

Tel: 01873 813666

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Crickhowell Open Studios

We are delighted to present the 2024 Crickhowell Open Studios, celebrating a rich array of art and creativity in 24 venues in Crickhowell, Abergavenny and the wider region for the fourteenth year.

You can now start planning your Open Studios Weekend adventure! The red numbered arrows and directions in the guide should help you find all the venues, be they artist studios or group venues. All venues are free to visit with many places en-route to eat, drink and explore. Seeing work in progress, learning about the creative processes and perhaps taking something beautiful home to enhance your life is what makes the event so popular. Many artists will welcome commissions and be willing to open their studios by appointment at other times of the year.

In the run up to the weekend you will find examples of artists’ work in the shop windows in the centre of Crickhowell to whet your appetite for visiting their studios. Our thanks to artists, businesses and Friends for their support through the display of art, sponsorship and advertising without which it would be difficult to host the event.

You can also join us on social media @orielcric where we will be starting the daily countdown in May.

We do hope that you have a wonderful weekend.

Suzette Pratten, Open Studios Co-ordinator

Oriel CRiC Gallery, Crickhowell

E: gallery@visitcrickhowell.wales • T: 01873 813665

Ethan McArdle ,Vicki Haycock, Jan Morgan and Suzette Pratten

Open Studios Parking

Please follow the red parking arrows to find parking in addition to the pay and display public car park behind the Crickhowell Resource and Information Centre.

Friends to CRiC

CRiC is shaped by the volunteers, artists, designers, tenants and visitors that connect with us. It is through the hard work, passion and creativity of this community, past and present, that it has evolved into such a dynamic centre.

CRiC has substantial overheads to maintain the building and services for the 60000+ users per year and normally receives no external funding. All contributions received from visitor donations, legacy gifts or support from trusts, further strengthens this community. Please consider becoming a ‘Friend to CRiC’ to financially support our vital work as a community. Sign up forms for a regular or one off donation can be picked up in CRiC, found on www.visitcrickhowell.wales or via email friendtocric@visitcrickhowell.wales

Volunteering

CRiC is supported by volunteers in a number of roles to handle visitor and local residents’ queries, staff the Oriel CRiC Gallery and support the Crickhowell Walking Festival. If you are interested in the volunteering opportunities please email jan@visitcrickhowell.wales

About CRiC

In the centre of Crickhowell CRiC is ideally positioned for advice on where or what to explore, to pick up a guide or two, buy a gift to remind visitors of their visit or browse in the Oriel CRiC Gallery upstairs.

Coffee bar

More than an information centre, CRiC is very much a central hub for both locals and visitors. The small, wifi-enabled coffee bar is a welcoming meeting place for those wanting to catch up and for groups to have a chat before setting off.

A taste of Wales

CRiC supports local producers and you will find a variety of locallyproduced gift and food items for sale, as well as maps, guides and publications with a local interest. The books, cards and gifts on offer very much have a local and intrinsically Welsh flavour. Black Mountain Roast Coffee, pure Welsh honey, Brecon and Wickedly Welsh Chocolate, Melin Tregwynt woven items and Farmers Lavender products are just a few of the uniquely Welsh items to tempt visitors.

Room hire at CRiC

Flexible, fully equipped meeting and hot desk spaces are available to hire. For more details and availability call 01873 813666, email jan@visitcrickhowell.wales or visit www.visitcrickhowell.wales/ cric-centre/facilities

Other services

The centre offers a host of services and facilities for individuals, groups, businesses and organisations including:

• Printing

• Photocopying

• Scanning

The other organisations operating out of CRiC are Crickhowell District Archive Centre and Dial–a- Ride.

Open Art Competition

The Crickhowell Open Art Exhibition remains a highlight of the gallery calendar. Quality and variety have become hallmarks of the exhibition, drawing entries from a wide area. In addition to a prize of £500 for the overall winner various category prizes were awarded in 2023.

• Overall Winner: Mike Shiels – Sentinel (A)

• Runner Up: John R Harris – Hill Grazing

• Tower Gallery Prize: Alan Braddon – Sugarloaf 1

• Watercolour Prize: Patrick Berry – Christmas Shopping (B)

• Printmaking Prize: Dawn McIntyre – Cafe Odette (C)

• Digital Prize: Chris Hammerton – Summer Under the Beeches (D)

• Visitors’ Choice Prize: Jantien Powell – Breathe in Shirley, I think she’s taking a photo!

Our thanks to the following for their generosity in contributing towards the prize money:

• The Tower Gallery, Crickhowell

• Rhian Symes

• Patricia Kelly

• James and Susie Suter

• Ann and Cyril Teasdale

CRiC’s Art Draw

Brecon and District Mind is CRiC’s adopted charity for 2024 and through the generosity of Oriel CRiC Gallery artists we are offering a wonderful range of prizes in our Spring art prize draw, including an Arthur Cadman coffee table, paintings, ceramics and prints. Please consider purchasing a ticket to support both CRiC and Mind.

Artist in Residence

Patricia Statham Maginness (A) will be the artist in residence in the conference room at the Oriel CRiC Gallery during the Open Studios Weekend (10am–2.30pm each day).

As a specialist in oil and encaustic wax painting, with a particular interest in exploring Celtic mythology, Patricia aims to connect landscape to language; both ancient and contemporary.

After studying at Glasgow School of Art and the University of Ulster, followed by the University of Brighton in 2004, she utilised her BA Hons Fine Art and PGCE Art and Design to teach and create art in various studios and educational environments.

She has dedicated her focus to the ancient technique of encaustic wax painting and has recently embarked on a significant commission for Creative Cardiff/Cardiff University, as one of the artists representing Monmouthshire. The making of this large scale work is being documented by film production company ‘Redbrck’, to be exhibited this April in Monmouthshire County Hall, and later this summer in Cardiff.

Before relocating to the Clydach Gorge area, she and her family have enjoyed living on a canal boat, a stark contrast to life in London. Here in the South Wales mountains, surrounded by lush trees, she found inspiration to create iron gall ink from oak galls, as used in the Book of Kells and the Magna Carta.

In addition to showcasing her studio work on social media and in monthly newsletters, she offers Coal Forest Ink sets on her website and conducts workshops to share the magic of this historical process. She can be followed on Facebook and Instagram at PatriciaStathamMaginness.

Demonstration

Saturday 25 May, 10am–4.30pm

With the support of the Jean Williams Foundation, Ann Notley and Jan Winstanley host a group (B) who share the skill of hand embroidery and in particular, stumpwork – a fascinating and intricate form of needlework that dates back to 17th century England. The group will be showcasing their work and sharing their skill downstairs in CRiC. The theme for their stitching for this year has been trees which has opened the door to endless possibilities of shape, texture and colour, and stitch. Then there’s the frame!

1. Oriel CRiC Gallery

CRiC, Beaufort Street, Crickhowell, NP8 1BN.

(Tel: 01873 813665)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

The Oriel CRiC Gallery is the perfect starting point for a weekend of enjoying art while exploring the region’s creative spaces during the Crickhowell Open Studios Weekend. The gallery is supported by a team of welcoming volunteers during its programme of 6 annual exhibitions. The Spring Exhibition which includes guest exhibitors from the Royal Watercolour Society of Wales will continue until 15 May before the Open Art Exhibition is installed.

The rest of the 2024 programme of exhibitions are:

• Summer Exhibition: 16 July–21 September

• Autumn Exhibition: 25 September–16 November

• Christmas at CRiC: 19 November–January 2025

Each exhibition showcases the work of regional and visiting artists celebrating their skill and craftsmanship. Visitors delight in the variety on offer with ceramics, glass, sculpture, textiles and jewellery complementing paintings and printmaking.

A: Crickhowell Open Art 2023

B: Patricia Kelly and Annie Griffiths

C: Spring 2024

The gallery is in the centre of Crickhowell, adjacent to the pay-and-display public car park. Additional parking is signposted.

2. Torfaen Arts

Clarence Hall, Beaufort Street, Crickhowell, NP8 1BN. (Tel: 07421 119922)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

It’s 10 years since Torfaen Arts opened its first exhibition at the Clarence Hall, during Crickhowell Open Studios Weekend. The talented work produced by the members develops in style and diversity each year. Once again the artists will be available on site to meet the many friends made since 2014. Torfaen Arts extend a welcome to old and new visitors. All displayed works will be for sale.

Adjacent to CRIC.

3. Colin Davies and Dawn Elliott-Jones

Latte-Da, Beaufort Street, Crickhowell, NP8 1AD. (Tel: 07592 840217)

Sat 25 May: 10am–4pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–4pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–4pm.

Local professional artist Colin Davies (A) returns to demonstrate his vibrant depiction of the rugged beauty of the Welsh coastline and mountains of Bannau Brycheiniog. Joining him this year is local artist, Dawn Elliott-Jones (B), whose atmospheric and evocative textile sea and landscapes will also be exhibited upstairs and in the garden of Latte-Da Cafe.

In the centre of Crickhowell, opposite CRiC.

4. Ginny Topp

Old Cross Keys House, 35 High Street, Crickhowell, NP8 1BE. (Tel: 07855 245371)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

Ginny will be exhibiting jewellery, paintings and ceramics along with works by her late mother, Elaine Meadows. Her new pottery studio will be open where she will be demonstrating ceramic techniques. Visitors will be able to participate by arrangement and book spaces on upcoming ceramic workshops.

We are towards the Bridge Street end of the High Street.

5. Rebecca and Eddie Burn

39 Bridge Street, Crickhowell, NP8 1AR. (Tel: 07843 053702)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

Rebecca and Eddie live in a village in South Wales. They are interested in a variety of subjects (including portraits, landscapes and seascapes).

On the right hand side of Bridge Street as you walk down towards the river. Just past the junction with Lamb Lane.

6. Tim Rossiter

6 Bridge Street, Crickhowell, NP8 1AR. (Tel: 01873 810301)

Sat 25 May: 11am–6pm, Sun 26 May: 11am–6pm, Mon 27 May: 11am–6pm.

Tim paints from memory and imagination, mainly in oils.

Bridge Street runs from the end of the High Street to Crickhowell Bridge. Number 6 is half way up.

7. Richard Mitchley

4 Llanbedr Road, Crickhowell, NP8 1BT. (Tel: 01873 810970)

Sat 25 May: Closed, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

Richard Mitchley is a self-taught artist working exclusively in oils. His subjects range from still lifes to landscapes. Richard is a keen walker and many of his paintings are inspired by his trips to Nepal, the Pyrenees and the mountains of Wales.

Llanbedr Road leads north from the A40 just past the Shell Garage. Number 4 is about 100 yards up on the left (big yellow door).

8. Crickhowell in Photographs

1 Dan y Grug, Crickhowell, NP8 1DD. (Tel: 07970 066400)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

Crickhowell in Photographs boasts an extensive collection of contemporary photographs and prints, all meticulously framed to highlight the stunning landscape, the charming town and the serene River Usk. Alongside these captivating visuals, the exhibition also features exclusive one-off prints from a talented local digital artist. These unique pieces, unparalleled in their creativity, are a one-time offering, making them an irreplaceable addition to any collection. Finally, there will be some rare, framed, original vintage adverts from time gone by.

The first house on the right-hand side as you enter Llanbedr Road.

9. Welsh Academy of Art

Welsh Academy of Art, Cwmdu, Crickhowell, NP8 1RU. (Tel: 01874 730693)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

The Welsh Academy of Art is delighted to be opening its doors once again for Crickhowell Open Studios.

Lucy Corbett will be showing a range of oil paintings of the Brecon Beacons, France, Oman, Spain and Italy alongside many still life and portrait paintings. Lucy works from life, painting plein air whenever she can and thus capturing moments in time. Over the years her work has increased in size and the brushwork has become more expressive.

Lee Wright will be displaying a new selection of original lino prints alongside some of his older favourites. Lee’s prints capture the beauty and tranquility of the Brecon Beacons along with animals and birds that have caught his eye. Lee will also have a series of smaller oil paintings on show – perfect for any home – along with a display of his floral, landscape and portrait oil paintings.

In addition to Lee and Lucy’s work there will be some of their finest student work on display. Prints and paintings, completed during workshops, will be shown alongside some independent work done by WAA alumni.

There will be an exclusive Open Studios sale of sketches, drawings and paintings all at discounted rates for the first time here at the WAA. Prices will be starting at £50 – don’t miss this event.

Come and join them for tea and cake, discuss art courses and commissions with Lucy and Lee or add to your art collection.

A: Sunflowers by Lucy Corbett

B: Sea bass at Sennen by Lee Wright

C: Kate by Lucy Corbett

Take the A479 towards Talgarth. As you enter the village of Cwmdu, the school is the first building on the right (after the campsite). The driveway is a little after on your right.

10B

10C

10. Art at St Edmund’s

St Edmund’s Church, Church Lane, Crickhowell, NP8 1BB.

Sat 25 May: 10am–4.30pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–4.30pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–3.30pm.

St Edmund’s has proved a very popular venue within easy walking distance from the various signposted car parking options. The refreshments on sale throughout the weekend will once again raise funds for the church and its supported charities, including Christian Aid.

Chris Heneghan (A)

Chris Heneghan throws, glazes and fires all his work from scratch in his Abergavenny studio. Currently he is offering crystalline glazed works in addition to more traditional glazes, on functional kitchen, table and home wares, and on decorative pieces. All purchases can be taken away on the day.

Tel/text: 07917 078561 • Email: chrisheneghan48@aol.com •

Website: www.chrisheneghan.uk

Kwong Kuen-Shan (B)

Kwong Kuen-Shan is a Hong Kong Chinese painter, writer and art teacher. She lives and works in Wales. She paints to capture the Chi, the spirit of the subject, and to tell a story. Published in a dozen languages, she has held solo exhibitions in London, Paris and Milan. Tel/text: 07949

474190 • Email: kwongkuenshan@aol.com • Website: www.kwongkuenshan.net

Breknock Art Society (C)

Brecknock Art Society is exhibiting a wide variety of work by its enthusiastic members. They work in many different media and explore a wide range of subject matter. Much of their inspiration is drawn from the beautiful local areas surrounding them. Members participate in monthly workshops hosted by a visiting artist or specialist tutor.

Walk down High Street, turn right into Silver Lane, the church is on the left – the spire is clearly visible! If in a car, drive west along Brecon Road, turn left at Shell Garage, park at the High School, and cross over to the church.

11. Martin Truefitt-Baker

Rose Cottage, The Dardy, Crickhowell, NP8 1PS. (Tel: 01873 810710)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 11am–4pm.

Martin is a fine art printmaker and painter. His work is mostly inspired by the animals and landscapes he has seen on his walks within a couple of miles of his home. His work has been widely published as greetings cards and calendars, and he regularly exhibits in the Oriel CRiC Gallery.

There is a signpost for the Dardy immediately after St Catwg’s Church in Llangattock. Follow the road for a quarter of a mile and Rose Cottage is the second house along the bottom of the Dardy. Please park opposite the phone box before the road splits.

12. Warren Storey

St Catwg’s Church, Llangattock, NP8 1PH. (Tel: 01873 810200 or 07530 732836)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm with talk at 3pm, Sun 26 May: Service at 9.30am, then open 11am–4pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–4pm.

The late Warren Storey ATD RWA, painted prolifically and exhibited extensively during his lifetime. He taught Fine Art in Weston-super-Mare. In this centenary year, his daughters show a retrospective selection of his work. There will be a talk and tea on 25 May at 3pm.

St Catwg’s is easily seen and reached by foot across the Glebe Field from Crickhowell Bridge, or by road, turning right at the Vine Tree and then first right through the village. Parking is limited.

13. David C Thomas

Sequoia Art, West Llanwysg, Llangattock, Crickhowell, NP8 1LW. (Tel: 07885 621238)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

Sequoia Art sits directly under giant Sequoia sporting a 65 foot circumference on the banks of the Usk. The exhibition celebrates David’s journey into art over recent years and of those who have inspired him during this time. The exhibition includes works of portraiture, still life and landscape in both charcoal and oils.

Drive west from Crickhowell Bridge along the B4558 towards Llangynidr for precisely 0.7 miles. Access is through the WOODEN GATE on the right hand side of the road where the black and white bollards end.

14. Sally Mills Artist

Brynteg Studio, Station Road, Gilwern, NP7 0BY. (Tel: 07745 035215)

Sat 25 May: 10am–4pm, Sun 26 May: 11am–4pm, Mon 27 May: Please call first.

Sally is a mixed-media artist with a love for colours and textures while continually exploring new techniques. She is inspired by the surrounding hills, valleys, trees, tangled wildflowers and reflections on water. There will be lots to see: acrylic and watercolour paintings, resin, window art, pyrography, fine art prints, decorations, arty scarves and bags.

Drive to the top of Gilwern Village Main Road, past Towpath Inn, left onto Station Road which takes you over A465. Up the hill, take the first RIGHT turn looking onto the Sugarloaf. Park along Station Road before turning right.

15. Glangrwyney and Llangenny Amateur Artists

Glangrwyney Village Hall, Crickhowell, NP8 1EF. (Tel: 07701 327306)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

Glangrwyney’s Community Hub is opening its newly refurbished hall for the first time this year to showcase the work of a variety of local amateur artists. Many of whom have been inspired by previous open studio events and workshops. The group is looking forward to displaying their diverse range of art. The intention is to hold a monthly art club for like-minded individuals. Good parking on site. Cafe serving food and drinks with a licensed bar. A freestyle drawing area and Lego create for children and adults also available.

The hall is on the A40 at Glangrwyney, between Crickhowell and Abergavenny.

16. Louise Collis

20 Monk Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5NP. (Tel: 07949 187426)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–4pm.

Originally from the South Wales valleys, Louise’s love of painting was always going to mean a creative path, graduating in 1998 with a degree in Graphic Design and Illustration. Moving back to Wales she worked as an exhibition designer before rediscovering her love of landscape painting in oils. She now works full time as a landscape artist, painting every day, usually outdoors ‘en plein air’ or from her studio in Abergavenny. She takes her painting kit everywhere and can often be found sat on a hillside or cliff painting on a sunny day.

Opposite St Mary’s Church and Priory. Blue shop front.

17. The Makers Crafts Gallery

Lulworth House, 30 Monk Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5NP.

(Tel: 07496 819093)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

The Makers Craft Gallery is a traditional and contemporary artisan collective, showcasing the work of artists from around Wales, with many members living locally. Their members steward the gallery, offering visitors the opportunity to chat with different makers when they visit. On display you will find cards, prints, paintings, photography, woodturning, glass art, textiles, metalwork, sculpture, ceramics, willow and artisanal flowers! Their website lists information on regular workshops run by their members and details on how to enquire about commissions. You will find them on the ground floor at the historic Lulworth House on Monk Street, opposite the junction to lower Monk Street, just a minute’s walk from St Mary’s Church. There are numerous cafes within 2 minutes’ walk.

A: Colin Davies

B: Fran Philips

C: Chris Heneghan

D: Kim Davies

Located on Monk Street (bottom of Hereford Road), just up from St Mary’s Church and the Tithe Barn, opposite Gateway Church.

Abergavenny Centre

18. Art of 4

The Priory Centre, St Mary’s Priory, 5 Monk Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5ND. (Tel: 07387 981171)

Sat 25 May: 10.30am–4.30pm, Sun 26 May: 10.30am–4.30pm, Mon 27 May: 10.30am–4pm.

Art of 4 is a group of four friends – Jenny Price, Kathryn Owen, Rosemary Cochrane and Steve Ellwood – who met at Chapel Cottage Studio workshops. This, their first exhibition together, showcases their different styles, mediums and interests. They meet once a month to develop their sketching skills and discuss art.

The Priory Centre is located on the southern side of St Mary’s Priory Church, at the upper end of the bus station car park.

19C

19E

19. The Frogmore Street Gallery

20 Frogmore Street, Abergavenny, NP7 5AH.

(Tel: 07474 348872)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

In December 2023, after 28 years successful trading from a rural barn on the slopes of the Skirrid Mountain, the Black Mountains Circle of Artists and Makers relocated to its new home in the heart of Abergavenny, joining many new businesses in the vibrant cafe quarter. The Circle operates as a not-for-profit co-operative, showcasing the work of talented local artists and makers, including painters, hand weavers, basket makers, wood turners, textile artists, blacksmiths, ceramic and glass artists and many more.

The Frogmore Street building offers an exciting opportunity for BMC to widen its well-established membership, its training workshops and its connectivity and influence in the wider art and craft community. A visit to the gallery will demonstrate what we have to offer.

Some members will be demonstrating their skills at the gallery over the weekend.

A: Sarah Wygas

B: David Haswell

C: Penny Turnbull

D: Jude Lowrey

E: Jeanette Hannaby

The gallery is located at the junction of Baker Street and Frogmore Street, next to Nicholls Department Store, at the western end of the pedestrianised town centre. Vehicular access is via Baker Street.

20. Textiles at The Weir

The Weir, Llanddewi Rhydderch, Abergavenny, NP7 9TW. (Tel: 01873 840299)

Sat 25 May: 10am–4pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–4pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–4pm.

Textile artist, Jan Thomas finds inspiration in the nature and countryside around her studio, where she runs a variety of textile courses that cater for all abilities. She also sells her textiles and woollen products from her Coloured Ryeland sheep.

10 minutes/3 miles out of Abergavenny on the B4233.

21. Chapel Cottage Studio

Chapel Cottage Studio, Llanddewi Rhydderch, Abergavenny, NP7 9TT. (Tel: 01873 840282)

Sat 25 May: 10am–4pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–4pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–4pm.

Cottage Studio is a small art-teaching studio nestled in the Welsh countryside with stunning views of the local mountains. Run by mother-daughter team Jantien Powell and Tirza Snook, the studio hosts a vibrant year-round programme of friendly, informal art classes to suit all abilities. Subjects include watercolours, acrylics, pastels, oils, pencil drawing and mixed media. Jantien Powell, the resident artist and tutor, leads many of the classes on offer, alongside a selection of the very best artists and tutors from the area, as well as many from further afield.

During the Crickhowell Open Studios Weekend there will be an exhibition of Jantien’s work on display as well as works from some of the talented students and guest artists who visit the studio. The weekend will also mark the launch of the brand new programme of classes and workshops for the 2024–25 academic year.

Visitors are welcome to relax and chat in the cosy conservatory with a cup of tea or coffee and a slice of homemade cake, or to enjoy the acre of garden and patio area, taking in the scenery. There is plenty of space for children to play outdoors to please feel free to bring the family.

From the A40/Hereford Road in Abergavenny take the B4233 to Rockfield/Pen Y Fal. Continue for approx 2.5 miles before turning right to Llanddewi Rhydderch/Coed Morgan. At Llanddewi Rhydderch village green turn right up the hill past the church. After a quarter of a mile cross the junction and CCS is on your left. Find a route map for these directions at chapelcottagestudio.co.uk/contact-us/

22. Clare Williams

Ivy Cottage, Coed Morgan, Abergavenny, NP7 9UD. (Tel: 07971 849955)

Sat 25 May: 12noon–5pm, Sun 26 May: 12noon–5pm, Mon 27 May: 12noon–5pm.

Clare is a Welsh botanical artist, working mainly in watercolour. She enjoys growing plants and vegetables in her garden, to eat and draw and paint. She regularly exhibits with the Society of Graphic Fine Art and has completed a diploma with the Society of Botanical Art.

From the Hardwick roundabout take the B4598. Take the turning left, opposite the road to Usk. Travel down the road for half a mile. At the T junction turn right, signposted Coed Morgan. Take the second left where the road forks. Ivy Cottage is the second house on the left. What3words address: ///games.users.shrimp

23. Janet Chaplin Artist

The Makers Studio at Craft Renaissance, Kemeys Commander, Usk, NP15 1JU. (Tel: 07990 535031)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

Janet’s paints the landscapes and seas around South Wales, showing her love for her adopted home through her colourful paintings which are full of contrasts and atmosphere. Her work is inspired by the Fauves, Impressionists and the colour field paintings of Abstract Expressionism. Exhibiting in Wales and beyond she has developed several collections alongside her popular hills and seas, including rivers, trees and pure abstracts. She paints in a variety of scales and media and is more than happy to accept commissions.

From Abergavenny: take the B4598, follow it and take the right turn towards Usk. Drive over the chainbridge, take the first right after the turning for the Chainbridge Inn. From Usk: follow the B4598 through Llancayo, turn left just before the Alice Springs Golf Club. (NB: SatNav will take you into the farm next door, please look out for our signs and boards.)

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24. The Makers at Craft Renaissance

The Makers Crafts Gallery, Craft Renaissance, Kemeys Commander, Usk, NP15 1JU. (Tel: 07496 819093)

Sat 25 May: 10am–5pm, Sun 26 May: 10am–5pm, Mon 27 May: 10am–5pm.

The Makers Gallery at Craft Renaissance is housed in a bright and beautiful converted barn, exhibiting 30 artisans, who form a collective of maker-members from Wales and the borders. During the Open Studios Weekend you will also be able to visit The Makers Studio, where visitors can see artists at work and running demonstrations. The venue also has the very delicious Craft Renaissance Kitchen Cafe in which to enjoy coffee and cake, or a light lunch. We will be exhibiting a wide range of art and crafts, from willow weaving to painting, ceramics to jewellery, woodturning to textiles, floristry to photography, sculpture to illustrations, and paper art to books. Our makers help share the stewarding duties, so visitors are always assured of a warm welcome.

A: Group photo

B: Beca Beeby

C: Lynne Littler

D: Deborah Edwards

Same as directions for venue 23 (page 41).

Local Diary Dates

2024

Crickhowell Open Gardens

7th July

Crickhowell Flower, Vegetable and Craft show

17th August

Late Night Opening in Crickhowell

5 December

Cristmas at CRiC

With the festive exhibition in the Oriel CRiC Gallery starting on 19 November, a visit to CRiC is the perfect starting point to the festive season.

2025

Crickhowell Comedy Festival

30 January–1 February

Crickhowell Walking Festival

8–16 March

Crickhowell Music Festival

2–5 May

Crickhowell Open Studios

24–26 May

Thank you

Thank you for supporting the Open Studios Weekend in 2024. We hope you found it an inspiring weekend.

If you would like to join our mailing list or share your thoughts on the venues you visited, please email: gallery@visitcrickhowell.wales

Key to symbols

Please consider the symbols at each venue before planning your visit:

Suitable for disabled access. (Toilet facilities may be limited if at an artist’s home)

Parking nearby

Parking in town car park

Toilets available

Some refreshments may be for sale

Tourist information available

Ongoing demonstrations

Crickhowell Resource and Information Centre, Beaufort Street, Crickhowell, NP8 1BN.

Tel: 01873 811970

• Email: gallery@visitcrickhowell.wales

Front cover image by Wendy Mcleod (venue 1)

Back cover image by Paul Weston (venue 1)

Guide designed by www.awgraphicdesign.uk

The Open Studios Weekend is the result of strong teamwork between CRiC staff members, volunteers and artists. We appreciate the wonderful support from local businesses through advertising, display and exhibition space which helps to create the welcoming atmosphere in the town. www.visitcrickhowell.wales