DEVON Artist Network has announced a 9% increase in visitor numbers as more than 300 artists opened their doors in 160 venues across the county. More than 21,000 visits were made to artists across the region who made sales of over £215,000.

Devon Open Studios is showcase for Devon Artist Network, a membership organisation that was set up to promote the visual arts in Devon.

Artists open their doors to the public and are publicised through the distribution of brochures and strategic marketing throughout Devon and beyond.  

Helpful Holidays, of Chagford, for the second year running, sponsored the 'Emerging Artist Bursaries', which aim to nurture and encourage new talent to take the next steps in their practice.

Artist Jane Leitch, from Gidleigh, had a successful studio opening: 'The show went really well and I obtained ongoing commission work. The publicity is fantastic — you get your work shown all over Devon and I am discovered by followers who come back.'

Jane specialises in commissioned animal portraits in watercolour, pastel or oils, and also exhibited marine and landscape paintings at her studio.

'Despite the recession, I think we got more visits this year than last. I sold big paintings and my cards were flying off the shelves.'

Claire McLaughlin, the event co-ordinator, said: 'Visiting Devon Open Studios is enormously informative because you can see at a glance how the artist works and have the chance to speak to them directly about the creative process.

'It's a great opportunity for artists in Devon to showcase their work to thousands of local people and visitors from across the UK, many of whom come specially for this event.'