Dunbar Art Route grows to more than 60 artists in its second year

An open studio trail on the East Lothian coast has grown fast. The Dunbar Art Route returned for its second year in October, with more than 60 artists opening their doors across 32 creative spaces.

The trail was launched last year, when 47 artists took part. Jane Robertson of the Dunbar Art Route said there were more applications this year than the organisers could cope with, which she saw as a sign of its success and of how many people want to be involved.

The route follows the coastal road from West Barns, through Belhaven and into the heart of Dunbar, with private studios, galleries and pop-up venues along the way. Visitors pick up a route map and plan their own itinerary, starting at any venue and exploring at their own pace.

Jane, whose own studio was venue two, down at the harbour, said what makes the trail special is the density of private studios, with everything within walking or cycling distance. She believes the work reflects the landscape and history of the area, and the combination of the two.

Visitors could see ceramics, painting, jewellery, printmaking, textiles, collaborative embroidery and sculpture. Alongside the open studios, the programme included creative workshops, artist talks, demonstrations and community projects, giving people a chance to learn about artists' working processes and, in some cases, to have a go themselves.

Jane said the growth was a sign that more people want to be involved, and added that some of those who applied this year could not be included, so interest in future editions looks strong.

The trail ran from Friday 16 to Sunday 18 October, opening from 10am to 5pm each day. The artists taking part ranged from painters and printmakers to designers and makers, and their names and work can be explored on the trail's website.

For a town that is already a favourite with walkers and day trippers, the art route adds another reason to linger, and it shows what a small community of makers can achieve together.

To see the participating artists and keep up to date with plans for next year, visit the Dunbar Art Route website.