Hampshire Open Studios, an annual art trail where the visiting public can meet artists in their homes, studios and galleries free of charge, will soon return for this year's event.

At more than 290 venues open between Saturday, August 19 and the bank holiday on Monday, August 28, visitors can get the opportunity to meet the makers direct and learn more about the work.

Those interested can use Hampshire Open Studio’s colour catalogue or new app available on the Google Play Store and Apple Store to guide them through the trail.

Visitors can also enter a prize draw to win £100 towards artwork from their favourite Hampshire Open Studios artist.

There are lots of venues to visit across the New Forest. The trail starts in Downton, where people can visit the glass studio of Lynn Purcell, situated in the riverside mill.

Visitors can enjoy tea and cake in the garden with donations to Salisbury Hospital Stars Appeal Breast Care Unit.

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Nearby Salisbury Art Scene group of artists are at Hale Village Hall, or visit the village of Woodgreen, with loads of venues plus New Forest ponies on the green.

The studio of Pete Gilbert has local landscapes, Cornish seascapes, jewellery, woodcraft, sculpture and photography.

Heading south to Fordingbridge, one could spend the day around the town, with six venues in close proximity. A highlight includes the painting studio of Valerie Nerva, exhibiting with jeweller daughter Suna May.

Artists are very much looking forward to inviting members of the public to their studios and galleries and making every effort for their visits to be enjoyable and creative. Last year Hampshire Open Studios raised more than £25,000 from donations for local charities.

Find out more, click here.