Spring Fling, the popular open studio event now in its fourth year, is taking place again in Dumfries and Galloway on 27 and 29 May 2006. 

One of the most successful event of its kind in Scotland, makers and artists will be throwing open the doors of their workshops and studios to welcome the public who will be able to watch them at work, ask questions or buy a special piece of work directly from the studio (prices start at £5). 

Makers who will be participating this year include Jo Gallant, who produces colourful cushions and fabrics from her studio in Kirkcudbright.  In her textile work she uses dyeing, piecing, quilting, construction and machine embroidery, combining fabrics of constrasting texture, weight and transparency.

New this year is the New Faces scheme, which involves makers who originally hail from Dumfries & Galloway returning to the region to exhibit alongside a local artist in their studio. 

The New Faces of 2006 include jeweller Alison Macleod who is currently undertaking a residency in a school in Kilmarnock as part of the 'Elements of Change' programme, and Shimara Carlow, jeweller and silversmith, based in London. Alison and Shimara recently had an impact on London’s contemporary craft scene at Chelsea Craft Fair 2005, with Shimara also exhibiting at the Goldsmiths’ Fair in London.

Full details of all the makers taking part can be found in the Spring Fling brochure along with six suggested studio trails, which can be easily followed by car, and recommended cafés, restaurants, hotels and pubs as well as other places of cultural interest. Copies of the brochure can be requested by visiting the Spring Fling website  or calling Gracefield Arts Centre on 01387 262084.

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