Go on, show off all that artistry!

CALLING all artists in Great and Gorleston, if you are living and working in Norfolk and you want to raise your profile and sell your art, then now is the time to apply to be part of Norfolk Open Studios.

The deadline for applications is Monday December 12. It is the largest annual visual arts event of its kind in the region. It is an opportunity for artists, groups of artists and galleries to throw open their doors and showcase their work.

In 2009 the studios will run from Saturday May 16-Sunday 31. The application fee includes a listing and image in the Open Studios brochure and website, other promotional material and advice about how to encourage people to attend.

It also includes the opportunity to take part in a taster exhibition and the chance to engage with other artists in the region. Last year 27,000 people from every corner of the county visited the studios and there was a 60pc increase in the number of artists' commissions.

Artist Vik Ellis said: “As a full time professional artist, it is an important date on my calendar. It is by far the best way of reaching local art buyers and interested people, not just through visits to my studio, but also via broader events such as the taster exhibition. The brochure is a great visual guide to local artists that continues to provide opportunities long after the event has finished for the year.”

Norfolk Open Studios, part of Norfolk and Norwich Festival, is supported by The Arts Council England, Norfolk County Council, Norwich City Council, South Norfolk Council, North Norfolk Council, Broadland District Council, Breckland Council and the borough council of Kings Lynn and West Norfolk.

For an application form please visit www.nnfestival.org.uk/openstudios/ or contact Jo Foyster, Visual Arts Administrator at the Norfolk & Norwich Festival, on 01603 877757 or Joanna@nnfestival.org.uk.

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