Open Studios 2025
Since 2022, a team of volunteers has worked together to coordinate Innerleithen Open Studios, a community-led celebration of local art and artists in Innerleithen and the surrounding area. Building on the success of the past three years, Open Studios 2025 expanded to include Traquair and Walkerburn as well as Innerleithen.
In the last weekend of September, Open Studios 2025 saw 40 artists showcasing their work to new audiences, with a range of workshops and events providing opportunities for participation.
Local artist Zoe Atherfold designed a map and poster which were printed at the historic Robert Smail’s Printing Works, Innerleithen, and distributed locally by volunteers.
12 artists opened their studios to the public, with a further 18 artists showing work in local shop windows or in group shows in Walkerburn and Innerleithen. Three local artists ran workshops during the weekend (stitching, portrait drawing and book illustration) and the Bernat Klein Foundation led a textiles workshop, providing opportunities to get hands-on and creative.
For those looking to stretch their legs, two local guides gave textile-themed walks in Walkerburn and Innerleithen.
A launch/celebratory event was held on the Friday evening and a social event on the Saturday night, with music, song and storytelling.
Find out more about Open Studios over on their Facebook page.
Total project costs: £4492.47
Grant awarded: £3980.00 (89% of total costs)
40 participating artists: 12 artists’ studios open to the public; 19 artists exhibited in local businesses and shop windows; 22 artists exhibited across two group shows
8 events delivered
15 volunteers contributed around 300 hours of their time during delivery of this project
Around 200 attendees
“Many thanks for an opportunity to see all the talent on our doorstop and to speak with really interesting folk.”
“Lovely. We enjoyed the craft activities, seeing the artist’s work and the lovely warm welcome.”
“I hope this can happen every year so that people can discover how many talented artists and crafts people live in the area.”
Feedback from participants and attendees
The Community Grants Scheme was made possible by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund Scotland.
Find out more about Destination Tweed’s Community Grants Scheme