COWAL Open Studios (COS) has reinforced its position as one of the biggest art collectives on the west coast of Scotland, with an impressive 22 new members joining the network for 2026.
COS has also unveiled its schedule of exhibitions over the coming months that kicks off this weekend (May 23-24) with the Makers Market at the Pavilion on Dunoon Pier.
Sandbank-based artist Hans Calvert, the recently appointed chair of COS, commented: “We are very proud to announce that, with 22 new artists and artisans joining the group this year, we now have 68 members, which is a wonderful achievement that confirms our status as one of the premier public-facing art networks on the west of Scotland.
“It is also gratifying to note that, even in the current economic climate, artists and makers remain keen to join and work alongside the prodigious talent already within the group, and they add several new genres to our existing extensive portfolio of art categories, including weaving, blacksmithing, leatherworking, heritage arts, wool craft, memorial art, woodturning and carving, and beach craft.”
He remarked: “We have an ambitious exhibition programme in place that highlights the inspiring work of our creatives across Cowal and includes our ever-popular annual open studios weekend, where artists open up their workspaces to the public.
“The group looks forward to welcoming residents and visitors to these events, starting off with this weekend’s exhibition on the pier. It is an opportunity to engage with art, especially when so much creativity is inspired by our landscapes, seascapes and the geography that surrounds us.”
Hans Calvert added: “That is one of the key objectives of COS.”
COS celebrates the breadth of creative talent on the peninsula and said it is an honour to be able to represent them. “A warm welcome awaits all who attend any of our many and varied events,” added Hans.
Scheduled exhibitions:
Ongoing exhibition of our artists’ work at the Ahoy seafood restaurant in Dunoon.
July 1-18 – Dunoon Burgh Hall – Talented members from outside Dunoon will show their work in the Art from Wider Cowal exhibition.
July 25-26 – Artists & Makers Market – The Pavilion on Dunoon Pier.
Sept 5 to Oct 10 – The annual COS flagship exhibition – Main Gallery, Dunoon Burgh Hall.
Sept 25-28 – The ever-popular Cowal Open Studios Weekend Trail, visiting the studios and venues of all 68 members.
Nov 1-19 – Exhibition of our work at The Barony Centre, Craft Town, West Kilbride.
Hans concluded: “Running alongside these is our annual Schools Painting Competition, which again this year is very generously sponsored by Western Ferries, and our mentoring programme for young emerging artists who have joined to advance their experience and potential in the art world through engagement with our members.”
For more information, visit the COS website: www.cowalopenstudios.co.uk
