The one that got away

After missing this year’s Open Studios deadline, Steve Slimm announces his own plans to open his workshop to the public.

Catching up with landscape expressionist artist, Steve Slimm, we hear how excited he was to be taking part in 2019 Open Studios Cornwall – the first time in six years. That was until he realised he was five weeks too late in applying! “All done and dusted before the end of November. I couldn’t believe it! And I have so much new stuff to show people, too!”

“I’m very pleased with the results this spring. It’s like coming out of hibernation into a world of wonderment”

This year has seen a surge of exciting new work in Steve’s vast studio in the Old Factory near Praa Sands. He’s found himself freeing up again with colour and form. He tells us: “I don’t know why, but despite my recognised work, every so often I just let go and loosen up again. I’ve done this for over 40 years. It’s rather like playing jazz – tension and release. I’m very pleased with the results this spring. It’s like coming out of hibernation into a world of wonderment.”

As an art lover, visiting Steve’s studio for the first time you can’t help but notice how much alike it is to an Aladdin’s cave. Just when you think you’ve seen everything, he’ll show you yet another room! From where he makes his frames, to where he holds sessions with other artists, to his music room; you can’t help but feel that he has it all organised. That is, as he puts it, “aside from Open Studio deadlines!”

But all is not lost. Instead of the usual ‘come in, we’re open’ approach for Open Studio events, Steve is continuing his ‘open by appointment’ policy this season. He says: “In a way, I prefer this approach. It means I have the opportunity to give full attention to specific visitors.”

Some of the work you’ll see forms part of Steve’s new website feature – ‘A Fluid Exhibition with No Fixed Agenda’, where the public decides when any particular piece is finished, instead of the finished article being the artist’s decision. As Steve says: “Come along and tell me when to stop!”

So, if you’re planning on making the most of this year’s Open Studios Cornwall, why not give Steve a text or a call and arrange a visit? Whether you’re by yourself or with a group, Steve is available until Sunday 2nd June, anytime between 10am until 8pm, so be sure to get in touch.

Steve Slimm Artist

07968 979367

www.steveslimm.co.uk/pages/openstudio2019