Rowan opens doors to public this summer

June 11, 2021

Cambridge-based arts charity Rowan is all set to open its doors to the public this summer, as part of Cambridge Open Studios.

Rowan, an arts centre that provides creative workshops for adults with learning disabilities, has printmaking, ceramics, mixed media, and textiles studios, as well as a wood workshop.  And in the third weekend in July, visitors will be able to visit the studios, and perhaps pick up a piece of original artwork for their homes.

Student artist Grace, who has been at Rowan since 2019, is one of the ceramic artists whose work will be on sale at a pop-up shop. Grace has been working with tutor Sarah Nibbs to create a series of ceramic pots, including one for her mum. When asked what she enjoys about making artwork at Rowan, Grace explains, ‘All of it, I love it, it makes me happy.’

“We love welcoming the local community into our space and showing them all the good work we do here,” says Sarah. “The student artists get a real sense of achievement when they see their own handiwork up for sale.”

While Rowan had to close its doors for much of the past 12 months, students stayed connected thanks to a programme of 26 zoom sessions a week, varying from chair yoga to online discos. Since returning, student artists have produced a variety of work including chopping boards, garden pots and ceramic rainbows, all of which will be available at Rowan’s July open studio event.

Rowan will be open to visitors from 17-18 July, 11.00am–6.00pm at 40 Humberstone Road, Cambridge, CB4 1JG. To find out more, please contact Rowan on 01223 566027 or email ellie@rowanhumberstone.co.uk