Falkirk's creative artists unlock doors for Open Studios

With around 24 artists across 12 venues, including locations in Bo'ness and Linlithgow, opening their studios and workspaces, Open Studio creatives are encouraging the public to visit a venue and become a part of Falkirk's growing art scene.

Launched by Artlink Central and D2 The Creative Centre in 2025, Open Studios Falkirk, now in its second year, is organised by a collective of local artists, craftspeople and creative venues.

Celebrated Grangemouth artist Lesley Anne Derks said of the event: “It feels great to be part of Open Studios Falkirk, bringing the local art community together to share ideas, support each other and work collaboratively. It also helps the wider community discover and support the creativity right on their doorstep, while inspiring others to explore their own creativity.”

During the nine-day-event, visitors can browse artwork, chat with artists about their creative techniques, watch live demonstrations, take part in workshops, and purchase work directly from local artists and creatives.

Lesley said: “It’s great there are so many people taking part, it's definitely something that'll grow next year, because there have been people who have just heard about it and maybe were just a bit late to apply, hopefully it'll just keep growing and become a sort of art festival.”

The types of art on show during the event includes pattern design from Joanne Boyle, art from Tracy Dougall, painting from Catherine King, woodwork from Emily Lewis, dress and costume making from Nici Martin, textiles from Alison Mayne, printmaking from Dawn McTaggart, and painting from artist Nikki Monaghan.

Event co-organiser and painter Nikki Monaghan, said: “One of the most important parts of Open Studios Falkirk is helping local creatives connect and collaborate. We want artists and makers to meet each other, share ideas and support one another. The more we work together, the stronger Falkirk's arts scene becomes.”

Three of the artists taking part in this year’s Open Studios event, Tracy Dougall, Nikki Monaghan, and mosaic artist Rhona Duffy will also be delivering open commissions, through the ‘Falkirk: From Space to Creative Place’ initiative, with visitors also getting the chance to view the artwork on Falkirk’s High Street.

Event co-organiser, artist and Studio 164 founder Rhona Duffy, said: “We're grateful to everyone who has supported Open Studios Falkirk. It is especially lovely to be working with recent graduates Sibel Marec, a graphic designer, Lexie May, a DJ, and web publisher Leo Monico, giving them some valuable work experience."

Venues where visitors can catch local artists in their true flow state include Falkirk Delivers, Callendar House, Red Leaf Studio and Firefly Gallery. High school students are also encouraged to attend, offering a chance to sample a career in the creative industries through arts and crafts.

For a closer at some of the artists and the type of creative work on display, visit the event’s Instagram page here.

Full details of participants, exhibitions and opening times are available on the Open Studios Falkirk website.