Herts Open Studios 2023
Herts Open Studios is the not-to-be-missed opportunity to experience the world of art first-hand, to meet and get to know the amazingly talented artists in our Hertfordshire community.
Fresh insights every moment of every day ... is there an artist you already adore? Are you looking to discover something new? Use our online map and other fantastic search features to plan your visits and remember that our Open Studios Brochure is a fantastic resource too.
With many venues across the county opening their doors, there's bound to be something for everyone, with plenty to see, do and experience.
On each local area Art Trail you'll find working studios, demonstrations and group exhibitions in pop-up galleries - all free to enter, and offering exceptional art experiences.
Many of our artists and makers will also be running additional special events and workshops during Open Studios. There are so many opportunities to get involved and spend time with an artist at their venue, perhaps enjoy demonstrations, and maybe take part in artist-led workshops too.
Find out more about Open Studios here
About Maxine Ellis
I have lived in St Albans for 23 years and I am the proud mum of my son Ellis.
I have always loved art and would doodle on any surface at hand. I delved a bit deeper after attending some sessions for wellbeing, run by artist Vijay Panchal, at our M.E Support group. The experience reignited my love for art. I then went on to do an Arts on Prescription course and work with H'arts in mind- experiencing in both, the amazing creative benefits for mental health and wellbeing.
Creating art is also my way to raise awareness and funds for Hertfordshire M.E/CFS Support Group, that I founded in 2016. I was diagnosed in 2009 and I have to pace myself carefully. In my pre M.E/CFS life, I trained as a dancer and although I always felt a bit awkward and shy when it came to speaking up, dance gave me the freedom to share in a non-verbal way. Visual art now allows me to express myself in other ways instead.
I am very much on my journey of learning and discovery when it comes to creating art. I enjoy experimenting with different mediums and I’ve found I enjoy using alcohol inks and paints, in a way that can be unpredictable. This challenges the urge to strive for perfection and I have become more comfortable with letting go.
This is so therapeutic, creating freedom and space to be more fluid and experimental. I am currently working with layering, including masking, to express the different layers within in us as people. The work exhibited shows my journey so far and I am delighted to be sharing this as part of HVA Open Studios. All exhibition sales will be donated to the Hertfordshire M.E/CFS Support Group.
Some places to explore…
www.maximuslovesart.wixsite.com
Instagram @maximuslovesart
www.hvaf.org.uk/our-events/herts-open-studios
Meet me!
I have recently started Spread Love Project UK, which you can find on Instagram @spreadloveprojectuk
The words and an idea have been with me for a while and whilst recovering from eye surgery, I thought I would see if I could get something started. It’s about being creative with positive words or images, taking them with you and spreading some love for someone else to find.
You are most welcome to join me in the Spotlight Café on selected dates throughout September to learn about my work, paint some stones with uplifting messages and enjoy a chat!
Friday 15th and 22nd
Saturdays 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th
Drop-in between 1 pm - 3 pm. I look forward to meeting you!
Entry is free and the exhibition is open during Spotlight Café opening hours, please click here for more information. For enquiries about the exhibition space at Trestle, please contact our Gallery Programmer Elaine Johnson at gallery@trestle.org.uk | 01727 850950