The Cheltenham Open Studios biennial art event returns this month, with artists from in and around the town exhibiting their work.

Beginning at Montpellier Park, the trail will feature venues all around Cheltenham, from The Wilson Art Gallery and Chapel Arts, to the University of Gloucestershire and artists’ homes and studios.

“We’ve got a real range of diverse locations,” said Project Manager, Niki Whitfield.

“The premise of Open Studios is inclusivity – we’ve got members who do art for fun, for a living, even as a way to help with mental health.”

The Cheltenham Open Studios is a community of artists and arts groups in Cheltenham and the surrounding areas.

“It’s a big community that feeds into the artistic heritage of the town,” said Niki.

“We’ve got 125 members, which include local arts associations, colleges and art therapy groups, so in terms of individual artists, that adds up to a lot more.”

The Open Studios showcase gives these artists the chance to show their work to the general public, as well as the opportunity to meet other members, collaborate and nurture their talents.

With communities all over the country, the Open Studios are, as Niki puts it, “a national movement”.

“Cheltenham and nearby places like Stroud and the Forest of Dean have a great artistic heritage,” continued Niki.

“However, Cheltenham doesn’t have many gallery spaces compared to some other towns and cities.

“This is why the Open Studios are so important for local artists to get their work out there.”

The Cheltenham Open Studios runs from Saturday 8th June to Sunday 16th June.

For more information visit www.cheltenhamopenstudios.org.uk