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Earlier this month, Quay Arts in Newport welcomed more than 110 guests to celebrate the opening of the Isle of Wight Open Studios Showcase Exhibition.
Attendees included artists, art enthusiasts and local dignitaries, among them both the outgoing and incoming High Sheriffs of the Isle of Wight.
Guests enjoyed drinks and lively conversation in the Quay Arts Café before the formal opening in the West Gallery.
An official welcome
Special guest Graham Biss BEM DL, the outgoing High Sheriff, formally opened the exhibition with a clear message about the power of the arts. He said,
“I was keen to accept the invitation to open the Open Studios Exhibition because of the important role the creative sector plays on the Island.
"The creative community is a very special one, and we should rightly celebrate it.”
He added,
“The quality and vibrancy of the Island’s artist community is one of our key assets.”
A taste of what’s to come
The exhibition runs until 31st May 2025 and features work from 90 of the 150+ artists participating in this year’s Isle of Wight Open Studios.
Entry is free, and visitors can explore a wide range of media and styles that highlight the Island’s creative diversity.
Open daily from 9am to 5pm, including Sundays, the Showcase serves as a preview for the main Open Studios event taking place from 16th to 26th May.
During the main event, artists across the Island open their doors to the public, offering demonstrations, conversations, and the chance to purchase original artworks.
Support from the creative community
The IW Open Studios CIC has extended thanks to the Showcase’s sponsors: BCM Wilson Hill, Roach Pittis, Cherry Godfrey, Monkton Arts, Velvet Octopus, Vectis Storage and Creative Island.
Jenna Sabine of Monkton Arts said,
“We are honoured to sponsor Open Studios. This initiative fosters creative connections, enabling artists to courageously share their unique styles; revealing the Island's rich tapestry of creativity.”
Plan your visit
To help visitors prepare for the main event in May, the official website features four interactive Area Maps and a 2025 Island-Wide Artists Directory, available online and in print.
These tools make it easy to explore the many studios and creative hubs dotted around the Island.
Whether you're a seasoned collector or a casual visitor, the Showcase Exhibition offers an ideal introduction to the artistic energy that flourishes on the Isle of Wight.
