Open Studios Cornwall is cancelled forever
The organisers behind a much-loved annual creative event across Cornwall have confirmed it will not be returning in 2025. Open Studios Cornwall, run by Creative Kernow, announced the decision has been made as funding has reduced in the current economic climate.
Over the past 20 years the annual event has seen thousands of artists and creatives open their studios to the public for nine days in May and June. This year alone nearly 300 Cornish creatives took part, welcoming visitors to meet the makers, explore their spaces, and purchase unique pieces.
Open Studios has previously been made possible by a series of grants, in addition to the income from participation fees. However, organisers said a lack of funding has made it increasingly difficult to sustain the event, despite their best efforts.
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In a post shared on Facebook, a spokesperson for Open Studios Cornwall said: "We have some sad news regarding the future of Open Studios Cornwall. For many years, Open Studios was made possible by a series of grants in addition to the income from participation fees.
"This included funding and in-kind support from Creative Kernow's Creatives Skills and Cultivator programmes. As funding for artist development has been reduced in recent years, it has become increasingly challenging for Open Studios to sustain, despite our efforts.
"We have now made the difficult decision to step back from running Open Studios Cornwall. As such, there will be no Open Studios Cornwall event in 2025."
Creative Kernow said it will be offering other showcasing opportunities through its associates programme, which can be found here. A spokesperson for Open Studios added: "We would like to thank all of the artists who have taken part in Open Studios Cornwall over the years."
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