More than 240 artists are taking part in Norfolk Open Studios, the annual event where visitors can meet artists, explore their studios and buy art which starts on Saturday. One local artist opening her studio door is Debbie Storey
Debbie Storey is looking forward to opening her studio for the first time, as part of Norfolk Open Studios, which starts on Saturday. Debbie, based in Pulham market, is inspired by the natural world and creates bold, vibrant paintings in acrylics – she also specialises in pet portraits. She says: ‘I’m looking forward to opening my studio for the first time, chatting about art and meeting some new people. I will have a wide range of work available in various mediums and sizes for visitors to view, as well as a selection of prints, so please visit and say hello!’
Inspired by the nature on her doorstep, many of Debbie’s paintings feature the Norfolk hares she sees on early morning walks around her village.
Peacocks have also become a source of fascination for Debbie, after spending many happy hours with her young daughters photographing them at Old Hall Farm, Woodton.
Movement and magic are key themes in her work. She adds: ‘I once read that Pagans thought it was lucky to see a hare staring at the moon and this really sparked my imagination. Since then, I have explored this idea through several different pieces, trying to catch this magical moment.’
Movement is another key area, with running and leaping hares, stags in magical abstract forests, majestic lions with manes blowing in the wind and horses running wild.
Debbie says: ‘I mostly work in acrylics to try and capture the bold, bright colours I see in nature. To create movement, I will often use palette knives and my fingers to give the pieces a sense of pace and drama.’
Debbie Storey‘s studio in her home on Tattlepot Road, Pulham Market, will be open on September 29 and 30, and October 1, 6. 7 and 8. Visit debbiessketchbook.co.uk and follow on Facebook and Instagram.
Other artists taking part in this year’s Norfolk Open Studios include:
Amelia Mills, a painter who is based in Walcott, said: “I’m excited to be taking part in Norfolk Open Studios for what will be my seventh year. It’s always a great opportunity to show my work and talk to the public about my art process. Who doesn’t love to look round a messy studio and see how art is created!”
Painter Sara Edwards will be hosting two workshops during Norfolk Open Studios for people of any ability who want to spend a relaxing day painting, she says: ‘Norfolk Open Studios is a wonderful opportunity to engage directly with so many people who are interested in art. I can talk about art, sell art, discuss commissions, and even encourage people to have a go at art, all in an informal studio setting.
South Creake artist Ricardo Pimentel says: ‘It’s such a rewarding experience. People drop by and are genuinely interested in what you do and just want to know more about your practice, which is really enjoyable. Sometimes one person drops by and at other times a whole family or group of friends call in. It’s the variety and interest that makes it so enjoyable for the artist.’
Daniel Randall, Norfolk Open Studios Producer, says: ‘Norfolk Open Studios is a fantastic opportunity to get a behind the-scenes experience of Norfolk artists and creatives. Visitors can expect a huge array of artforms from painting and print to textiles and ceramics, all from the artist’s home or studio. There’s really something for everyone. When you visit an artist’s studio you can take part in their workshops, view their demonstrations, and even buy a piece of their work.’
Norfolk Open Studios will take place between September 23 and October 8, 2023. For more information visit norfolkstudios.org.uk and follow on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
Featured image – Debbie Storey (picture credit: Georgia Gotts)
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