THE artists at Project Workshops in Quarley are gearing up for this year's open weekend and summer exhibition on 5 and 6 June.

The weekend launches the two-week Open Art 2004, which celebrates visual arts throughout Test Valley.

Workshops owner Richard Atkinson-Willes said that attendance has been increasing every year.

And he is hoping for even more people this year following the cancellation of the huge Art in Action festival in Oxford. He said: "The emphasis this year will be on demonstrations and visitors will be able to enjoy an even wider range of attractions."

On the evening of Saturday 5 June the workshops' gala evening will provide a high profile showcase to help get the two week's off to a flying start. Entry is by ticket or pass only.

Project Workshops is a complex of 12 artist's studios in the beautifully refurbished farm buildings at Lains Farm in Quarley.

It has a thriving community of resident artists and craft makers and has established itself as an important centre for the visual arts.

As Richard points out it is also an increasingly respected venue for collectors and serious art buyers. Last year more than 30 guest artists joined the resident artists to create a spectacular exhibition.

This year there will be demonstrations by potters, including newcomer Becky Speculo who recently graduated from Bath College of Art and Design.

She will be showing her work for the first time as the 2004 guest artist at Project Workshops.

Patricia Hilton-Robinson and her group of fellow glass engravers will be demonstrating their differing styles and offering visitors the chance to try their hand at the delicate art of drill and stipple engraving.

The blacksmiths from Armour Forge in Linkenholt will be setting up their mobile forge to demonstrate how they make their wide range of garden furniture and accessories, and will be inviting members of the public to have a go (over 18s only).

New resident artist Andrew Tollyfield will be exhibiting his handcrafted guitars, and once again Elizabeth Hodgson will be curating her very successful Art in the Garden exhibition.

This year the Project Workshops open weekend is running in tandem with the Fairground Craft and Design Centre at Weyhill and tickets bought at Project Workshops give entry to both venues. Entry costs £4.50. For details contact Richard on 01264 889889 or visit www.project-workshop.co.uk