FOR 16 years Devon Artist Network (DAN) has championed the individual, self-employed artists and galleries in Devon, including supporting artists through economic hard times. This year will be no exception.

After consultation with the 200 artists who signed up to this year’s event, Devon Open Studios will run from September 12 to 27, connecting our artists with local art lovers and the many visitors to the region.

Participating artists will be ensuring the safety of visitors through social distancing and use of masks and cleaning at their studios.

Simon Ripley and Esme Cooper will be showing their work in Crediton.

Simon Ripley makes large scale, brightly coloured linocut prints from his garden studio. He uses a huge 1850’s Columbian Relief press to make his work - its one of the first iron presses ever made.

Go along to his studio and you can use the press to print your name or a special message. Simon will be showing his recent work inspired by a visit to Morocco - dazzling colours and shapes of the Moroccan markets and landscapes. Simon is a Founder and Director of Exeter’s Double Elephant Print Workshop.

Esme Cooper takes inspiration for her hand printed textile work from the colours and shapes seen in her garden as well as from walks around the Crediton countryside and Devon coast paths with Collie dog "Ziggy".

The colours found in the wild openness of Dartmoor to the stunning ever changing coastal horizons have been the basis of much of her work.

Esme works with Procion Dyes, screen printing a blend of colours onto natural Linen fabric. Once printed she sews each piece into table runners, napkins, cushions, and bags. Every item is unique and handmade. Alongside the range of textiles Esme screen-prints onto ceramics and enamels using water based transfers.

Devon Open Studios produces a digital guide to help visitors plan their own art trail and combine browsing art with enjoyment of the county’s fantastic scenery.

More information about Devon Artist Network’s "Devon Open Studios" annual event can be found on the website: www.devonartistnetwork.co.uk . 

Visit the website to download a free guide to the event with colour coded maps and every artist illustrated.

Simon Ripley will open his studio at Old Orchard, Threshers, Crediton, EX17 3NL from 11am to 6pm on September 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26 and 27.

His contact number is 07857 036433 and his website is: www.simonripley.co.uk .

Esme Cooper will open her studio at 3 Lynwood Terrace, Crediton, EX17 3JR from 11am to 6pm on September 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26 and 27.

Her contact number is 07807 096636 and her website is: www.esmecooper.co.uk .