Derby artists showcase latest designs at distinctive Open Studios event

More than 70 artists from across Derbyshire, including six from the city are preparing for this year’s Banks Mill Open Studios and Artisan Fair, which invites the public and arts community to view a showcase of talent from the city.

The event is organised by the University of Derby, which offers support and space to new and growing businesses. Banks Mill is one of the University’s incubation centres, specialising in the creative industries.

Artists attending the event include the Green Door Printmaking Company (a mother and daughter Derby graduate team), Tara Knott, Tickety Boo Vintage stylist and Chris Barker and Hannah Barker, a husband and wife team who recently set up their letterpress studio, Smallprint Company, at Banks Mill.

Hannah said: “We're very much looking forward to this year's Open Studios, as always. It's a great opportunity to show people around the studio, how we work and chat about the vintage equipment and processes.

“We'll be entertaining the public with demonstrations and there'll be opportunities for people to have a go at printing on our smaller table top press. We'll have a selection of Christmas cards, coasters, gift tags and prints available to buy.”

The event begins on Friday November 20, running from 5pm – 8pm. Guests will be invited to listen to music, meet with artists and relax with a glass of wine. The weekend events taking place on Saturday, November 21 and Sunday, November 22 between 10am - 5pm, will also feature children’s activities.

Open Studios has grown as an event over the last decade and now attracts hundreds of visitors. The event will feature creative talents in fine art, glassware, jewellery, photography, fashion, weaving and many others.

For the third year running, an Artisan Fair will also be held at the University’s Enterprise Centre. Here, a range of stalls offering one-off, handmade gifts by artists and makers will be available to shoppers.

Karen Holland, Event Co-ordinator, said: “Open Studios has been running for more than a decade, with original works on show ranging from unique hand crafted products and design to contemporary sculpture, paintings and ceramics there will be something to inspire everybody.

“We also have a number of creative service businesses showcasing photography, graphic and web design, illustration, animation and film and video production.”

Banks Mill is located at 71 Bridge Street DE1 3LB, on the corner of Brook Street, and was purchased from the Banks family by the University of Derby in 1999. The Enterprise Centre is located a short walk away, also on Bridge Street (DE1 3LD).

Food and drink will also be available to purchase at both venues alongside a further exhibition of works by Banks Mill artists at the Enterprise Centre.