Steven Heaton’s studio

It was a big weekend for artist groups opening up their studios to the public. On Saturday I went to Rogue (see my previous post) and on Sunday we ventured a little further up the M6 to check out Cross Street Arts.

I’ve seen them exhibit on many occasions particularly in Warrington as some of the artists are pretty prolific at exhibiting! ‘Testing Space’ at the Pyramid Arts centre was a recent exhibition they took part in.

So onto the Studios. Well once again I loved it. Seeing each artist’s sacred space is a real treat for me and a privilege to see. First to welcome us in the main Gallery area was Andrea Lowe, an Associate Artist at Cross Street. We then had the brilliant guide in Maria Walker showing us around the upper floor studios and I have to admit that my favourites were the most colourful spaces! From Kat Buttons majestic winding origami wall sculptures and fun assemblages to Stephen Cunliffe’s vibrant abstract paintings. How can I forget Jane Fairhurst’s amazing treasure trove of crazy collectibles and madcap objects! There was a real mixture of diverse styles and working methods on hand to see.

Here are some images I took on the day…

Steven Heaton’s paintings

Jane Fairhurst’s brilliant pieces everywhere you look

And more…

Inside Jane’s studio

Stephen Cunliffe’s great working area

One of Stephen’s work in progress

Kat Button’s madcap assemblages

Works in progress by Kat

Kat’s cool working desk

Close-up of Kat’s faded origami works on the wall

Debra Budenberg’s studio

Close-up of her large-scale textile/upholstery installation

David Stanley’s work area

Some of David’s paintings on display

Joyce Coulton’s studio area

Corridor area

Martyn Lucas’ cabinet of treasures

Paula Lucas’s drawings and paintings below

Maria Walker in her studio space

Surrounded by images of her installations for reference

Cross Street Arts
114-116 The Standish Centre
Cross Street
Standish, Wigan
WN6 0HQ
www.crossstreetarts.com