​     Who we are 

farOpen - short for Forest and Rivers (Artists) Open Studios - is a volunteer, artist-led network organising the popular Open Studios Art Trail each July in the Forest of Dean and along the Severn & Wye rivers.

Since its establishment in 2017, the number of artists it represents has grown phenomenally and with it, farOpen’s approach to supporting artists in the community. In 2023 the organisation represents 155 members with 73 studios having welcomed visitors on the Art Trail in July. Additional Group Exhibitions are held in Summer, Spring and Autumn alternating between local venues.

farOpen’s holistic approach: focussing on building a thriving artist community,increasing year round visibility & awareness of its members’ artwork, events and workshops culminating in the annual Art Trail has contributed to its growth. Through its successful marketing campaigns and exhibitions, farOpen’s mission to attract and generate sales have helped this local, creative sector flourish. 

Members also benefit from an online peer group, for artists to support each other with business advice or moral support, complemented by monthly coffee mornings – a super valuable support network for a demographic who can often feel isolated working in solitude across the district.

Officers 

Uschi Arens Price, farOpen Chair & Project Management for membership, web site, brochure
Sarah Trenchard, farOpen Secretary, newsletter
Adrian Price, farOpenTreasurer

Its Steering Committee members

Charlotte Keating (marketing lead, exhibition support)
​Lisa Miles (distribution, marketing, exhibition support)
Sarah Delahoy (Instagram, marketing, exhibition support)

Co-opted Members 
Gina Nell (Exhibitions)

Social Media Team

Ali Edgson (Facebook)
Catherine Hawkridge (Facebook)
Sarah Delahoy (Instagram)
Grace Engel (Facebook)

Patron Christine Waygood

Please go to our how to join page for details on how to become a member. 

​