ARTISTS across Oxfordshire are gearing up for a mammoth exhibition which will see 474 different places throwing open their doors.

The first of this year’s Oxfordshire Artweeks starts on Saturday with 186 schools, studios, workshops, churches and private homes displaying art work.

Artweeks is now in its 27th year and the number of people and places taking part will be a record in the event’s history.

Among those exhibiting will be 26 artists based at Magdalen Road Studios.

As well as their own work, they have teamed up with children to produce 10 6ft by 4ft paintings which will be displayed along Magdalen Road and the footpath through SS Mary and John Churchyard in Cowley Road.

Studio founder and director Diana Bell said: “The studios have expanded so we’ve now got room, and we received funding from Oxford City Council’s east area parliament to do these workshops.

“From the public’s point of view, they love coming to see how artists work.

“We find they are often more interested in the way you are working than the actual work on the wall.”

Children worked with Madi Acharya-Baskerville to paint a bird journey and an underwater journey, while another group worked with Emma Reynard on a piece inspired by Aboriginal art. A group of adults also worked with artist Wren Hughes.

The week of events in Oxford will be followed by activities in South Oxfordshire from May 15-23, and in the north of the county from May 22-31.

Oxfordshire Artweeks chairman Nick Thorn said: “Our goal this year is to bring new audiences to the work of Oxfordshire's creative community, those who might find the idea of going to a gallery daunting.

"By visiting an open studio and talking to the artist you get to understand the creative process, the way they have tried to convey their ideas and the effect they have created. By going along to a couple of studios and seeing what is on offer, you too add to the vibrancy of Oxfordshire’s biggest arts festival.”

The festival is sponsored by d’Overbroeck’s College, and students, former students, parents and staff will also be taking part with displays at Leckford Place, Leckford Road, on Sunday, May 16 and Monday, May 17.

fbardsley@oxfordmail.co.uk