Open Up Sheffield 2021

Open Up Sheffield 2021, 1–31 May 2021, free entry - Visit now

As with many cultural events this year, Open Up Sheffield has adapted and grown to produce an artist open studio event that’s socially distanced without compromising on quality. Open Up is a rare chance to see artist’s work in their studios alongside the makers themselves. It’s one of the largest and most successful studio events outside of London. The previous event in 2019 was held over two consecutive weekends, featuring 86 individual artists and nine groups. The spectrum of work on display represented a full range of mediums, skills and disciplines. There were workshops, demonstrations and the chance to talk to artists directly, resulting in many purchases and new commissions.

In 2021 Open Up Sheffield is going to be different. They have extended the event to cover the whole month of May rather than two weekends and have moved every artist’s work into an online feast of creativity. Each artist will have a dedicated page on the Open Up Sheffield website where you can access photographs, videos and information about each person. They’ll also be virtual studio demonstrations and artwork tours. If you are keen to visit a studio in person, Open Up Sheffield can provide details of individual artists who are arranging visits by appointment.

You can find a real mixture of artists and makers, with previous years featuring watercolour, oil and acrylic paints, jewellery, ceramics, textiles, crafts, wood, glass, photography, print and mixed media. Expect to find cutting edge ideas, honed craftsmanship and classically trained beauty.

The entire month is completely free, giving access to high quality culture to all. Open Up prides itself on being a truly family friendly event, they recently gained the recognition of being a Children’s University Learning Destination. Check out the website to find out how children can earn credits and certificates through art activities.

This year Open Up Sheffield is dedicated to Paul Schatzberger, an inspirational Sheffield GP who was also a talented photographer and musician. Paul sadly passed away due to Kidney Cancer in 2020. He was a strong supporter of Open Up and heavily involved in the cultural life of Sheffield.

You can find all the information on the Open Up Sheffield website, where their online gallery will be celebrating the wonderful art South Yorkshire and Derbyshire has to offer, for the entirety of May and beyond.