ARTISTS from all over York have been showcasing their work as part of an annual festival.

York Open Studios, which took place on Saturday and Sunday and is also being held this weekend, features more than 120 artists who are inviting people into their studios and workshops across the city.

Over the course of the two weekends visitors are able to meet the artists, see their work and maybe choose a piece to take home. Many artists are offering demonstrations so visitors can watch their work being created.

Venues include Bootham School Arts Centre, The Mount School, City Screen York, Castlegate House and York Cemetery chapel.

Artists are also exhibiting their work in other areas such as Strensall, Haxby and Stockton-on-the-Forest.

Photographs, ceramics, textiles, jewellery and prints are on display during the festival in addition to drawings and paintings.

Among the artists taking part this year is Penny Phillips, who is at Pica Studios in Grape Lane.

Penny produces figurative animal forms using mixed clays, slips and oxides.

She said: “The day went very well, we were busy and people seemed very intrigued that there was this little collection of studios tucked away in the middle of York.”

Lesley Shaw is exhibiting her linocuts, drypoints and ink drawings, also at Pica Studios. She said: “The festival is going incredibly well, I’m thoroughly enjoying it. We’ve had loads of visitors to the venue. Lots of interest and sales.”

Studios and exhibitions will open on Saturday and Sunday, April 21 and 22, from 10am to 5pm. Not all workshops are open on both weekends and visitors are advised to check at yorkopenstudios.co.uk.