Hundreds of artists across Devon will open their studios to the public from September 6-21 as part of the Devon Open Studios event, with over 400 artists participating across 170 venues. Among them is Exmouth artist Ray Balkwill, who will open his Studio Gallery for three days (September 6-8) with a new exhibition titled 'Connections,' featuring his recent assemblages and ceramics alongside his traditional watercolours, pastels, and oils inspired by the Exe Estuary.
This event matters because it provides direct public access to local artists and their creative processes, fostering community engagement with the visual arts in a rural county. Balkwill's shift toward using discarded shoreline materials and clay highlights how established artists can evolve their practice while maintaining a deep connection to place, offering visitors a unique perspective on environmental and artistic transformation.