MORE than 50 Ayrshire artists opened their studios to the public in April - now they are set to do it again next year.

A footfall of over 5700 came out to support artists and to enjoy the art trail in Ayrshire with over 550 art pieces being bought.

Open Studios launched the event earlier this year at the University of West of Scotland’s (UWS) Ayr campus with guest speakers Councillor Bill Grant and actress Libby Macarthur, after which free workshops were offered to the public. These were well received and it is hoped to build on these next year.

The Maclaurin Gallery also showcased four artists work while Dumfries House kindly offered the Princes Art Studios to 4 Open Studios members to exhibit for a week.

UWS students also participated with a wonderful exhibition at the university.

Bea Holden, from Straiton, won the free raffle of £50 which she put towards a unique piece of art work by local photographer Graeme Law.

The Open Studios Ayrshire (OSA) team would like to thank supporters and sponsors especially The Lottery Arts Fund and South Ayrshire Council.

OSA would like to encourage artists and makers to join the membership. a spokesperson said: “It is going to be a fabulous year ahead with opportunities to raise profiles for many artists and it is a friendly and supportive event. We are working hard to secure venues for artists who do not have their own studio space. We are also planning some new exciting initiatives.

“The committee would like to thank the public who came out to support the event, and looks forward to next year’s event. Information and details regarding membership for 2015 can be accessed from the web site: openstudiosayrshire.com” OSA would like to invite any businesses who may be interested in sponsoring this wonderful art event to get in touch by email on osa12@hotmail.co.uk Follow them on Facebook openstudiosayrshire Membership for 2015 is open until January 2015.

The open weekend will take place during the weekend of April 25-26.