Ouseburn Open Studios

Another exciting weekend for your diary! The 26^th – 28^th November is set for the much anticipated Ouseburn Open Studios. I have vivid memories from last year of anxious queuing outside the Mushroom Works, a rampage when the doors were finally opened and then, not what I would call an altogether civilized, buying frenzy! Definitely the most hectic art exhibition I’ve ever experienced! With the great success we had last year, I can only imagine what this year will bring us.

For those of you who have yet to make it to the Ouseburn Open Studios, allow me to explain what this exciting weekend beholds. Within the hidden treasure of Ouseburn, eight creative venues will be opening their doors to the public creating a great opportunity to talk to the artists within their studios. Most of the venues this year will be hosting workshops, artist led demonstrations or other activities for all the family. There is also a huge variety of affordable work to buy from paintings, sculpture, jewellery and prints. Following on from the success of last year, Mushroom Works will be hosting their 20 x 20 exhibition. Artists create a 20cm squared artwork at a price of just £20! This is such a popular event for early Christmas present hunters, but it’s too good an opportunity not to grab an original artwork for yourself too! I limited myself to buying 3 pieces last year for presents, however 2 of them are now hanging proudly in my bedroom!

Every spare moment Joanne has had over the past few months has been spent preparing her 20 x 20s. Here’s a sneak peak of one she’s been working on.

All the information you need is on the Mushroom Works website at www.mushroomworks.com

The opening times are:

Friday 26th November 6pm-8pm (preview night at Mushroom works only)

Saturday 10am - 5pm (all venues)

Sunday 11am - 4pm (all venues)

Hopefully see you all there!

Written by Katie

Biscuit Factory Preview Night

As Joanne is otherwise engaged with some new additions to the family, I thought I would keep you updated with news of their recent events. 

The Christmas spirit was definitely in the air at the Biscuit Factory on Saturday evening. The new Winter Exhibition 2010 was officially revealed and with the great turnout the night was a great success. There is such a variety of work by local and national artists being showcased. Among the much-loved Newcastle landscape paintings and hare sculptures, there is a large collection of pieces from new artists to the gallery. 

 With people browsing for early Christmas presents, sparkling wine being handed out and frost on the windows, it was a perfect night to browse some artwork! On the ground floor, Joanne was set up with her very own exhibition space. It was great to see her work placed in yet another gallery and gathering the interest of eager buyers. Three of her originals were sold before the new exhibition was even officially opened! As you can imagine Joanne and Ross have led a rather hectic life over the past month after the arrival of two little boys! So it was great to see Joanne again, showing off the new originals in her collection. All that’s needed now is to prepare ourselves for the chaotic Ouseburn Open Studios! Wish us luck!

Written by Katie