May is the month of the annual Skye and Lochalsh Studio Trails, when
a selection of artists and craftworkers open their studios and workshops
to visitors.
There are four trails - north, central, south and east - with the
distinctive pebble logo marking each studio, where visitors can watch
and talk to artists as they work. The first Trails opened in 2003
with the aim of offering an alternative to craft shops and galleries,
whose priority is to display work for sale. Trails artists are saying:
"This is my workspace, these are my tools, and here is work in progress."
A Talisker Award for Overall Excellence in the first year was an
encouraging start. Third time round, the event has aquired patrons,
Sir Jeremy and Lady Gillian Isaacs. An innovative exhibition - "Artists
at Work" - at An Tuireann Arts Centre in Portree, features unfinished
works alongside photographs of the artists in their working environment.
The number of participants is limited to 40 and the selection requirements
are precise: the application fee for 2005 is £105; applicants must
earn the majority of their income through full-time artistic practice;
they must have a working studio and must commit to a minimum of 18
hours' public access per week during May.
So choose your route, take your time and prepare for an occasional
detour from the "pebbled trail", as you discover even more quality
arts and crafts along the way. One thing is certain - you'll enjoy
it!