PEEK behind the scenes as York artists open up their studios this month.

Nearly 100 artists and craftspeople are opening up their studios across two weekends. Take a peek behind the scenes at the workshops of painters, potters, sculptors, jewellers and a host of other artists while following the trail of studios in and around the city.

There are more than 70 venues to choose from this year, offering a chance to discover art in a range of spaces which are rarely open to the public, from town houses to cottage workshops and adapted garden sheds, historic buildings, including the Cemetery Chapel and Nether Poppleton’s Tithe Barn, as well as community spaces.

Anne Hutchison, chairman of the event, said: “This year we are delighted to welcome more than a third of new artists to York Open Studios, including a selection of makers based at the York School of Jewellery. Pop into studios, have a chat and perhaps a cup of tea with the artists and uncover the stories behind their work. You could even find yourself travelling home with a stunning new artwork.”

• Printmakers include Steve Bowen whose letter press prints bring the wonderful history of York to life and Gerard Hobson’s colourful lino prints of animals;

• Wood carver Graham Gamble’s countryside inspired carved reliefs draw on skills gained from a lifetime of restoring sculptural carvings in stately homes;

• New artists include Lu Mason whose graceful hanging mobiles feature motifs from architecture, flora and fauna and play on shapes and shadows and Alun Kirby whose cyanotypes explore natural forms;

• Visit York School of Jewellery to see the unique creations of four designer makers taking part for the first time.

York Open Studios takes place on Friday, April 15, Saturday, April 16 and Sunday, April 17, and then the weekend of Saturday, April 23 and Sunday, April 24. Studios are open Friday, from 6pm to 9pm, Saturday, from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday, from 11am to 5pm.

For full details and maps of all the studios, visit yorkopenstudios.co.uk and for a free copy of the event programme register online or email info@yorkopenstudios.co.uk