Ceramists, glass artists, furniture designers, jewellers and textile artists are among the 130 artists, makers and galleries taking part in the North East Open Studios running from 17 to 25 September 2005.

Visitors to the studios of Banff based ceramist Fiona Duckett will have the chance to experience the potter’s wheel on the 17 and 24 September when two potters with over 50 years’ combined experience will help them throw their own pot.  There will also be demonstrations throughout the event.  Fiona specialises in glaze reduction lustre ceramics and makes work inspired by the movement and reflected colour found in water.

Other makers taking part include furniture designers Richard Brockbank, Tony Hinde, Edward Lloyd, Robert Paterson, glass artists Mairi Ewen, Roselyne O'Neill and Gordon Watt, jeweller Lorna Purvis, ceramists Fran Marquis-Faulkes, Veronica Newman, Emma Pattullo and Sjarifah Roberts, textile designers Belinda Rose, Pippy McEwen, Kathryn Kusa and M E Harbinson and woodturner Norman Watt, who produces contemporary bowls and platters using native Scottish hardwoods.

Large group shows, where several artists and makers can be visited at one location, are also taking place throughout the area.

Event catalogues are available from Aberdeenshire Council and galleries throughout the region or visit the online catalogue at www.northeastopenstudios.co.uk