Hundreds of artists across Breckland and north Norfolk are preparing to throw open their studio doors as part of the popular Norfolk and Norwich Open Studios celebration.

The event is now in its 23rd year and this year runs from May 27 until June 11.

More than 500 artists will be taking part across 254 venues - from professional studios to garages and spare rooms.

In Breckland, 38 artists will be taking part across 21 venues and in north Norfolk 149 artists will be taking part across 83 venues.

As well as the scores of artists taking part, 13 schools, including Dereham Sixth Form College, Dereham Neatherd High School and Dereham's Northgate High School will be hosting events.

The countywide celebration will also feature and 17 art trails.

Ahead of the free open studios fortnight, The Old Workshop Gallery in Corpusty will be hosting a taster exhibition giving visitors a taste of what is in store.

The event, featuring the work of more than 10 artists, will run from Saturday, May 6, until Sunday, June 11, from 10am until 5pm (Tuesday to Saturday and Bank Holiday Monday. Sundays 12-5pm).

Exhibition coordinator, Jill Hill, said: 'The great variety of work makes for an interesting exhibition giving visitors an opportunity to compare in a beautiful and relaxed setting, with up to three pieces by each artist visitors are able to get a clear glimpse, or a good taste, of artists they might then wish to visit.'

Visitors to the increasingly-popular countywide scheme can watch live art through demonstrations and workshops.

Techniques, including wood turning, sculpture, jewellery, printing, papercuts, painting, textiles, ceramics and mosaic will be on show.

Dereham paper cutting artist Angie Park, 48, said: 'This is my second year participating in open studios. I absolutely loved it last year, as we ran regular workshops and had a great attendance throughout the two weeks. We were always thrilled to see visitors, and were amazed and flattered at how far people had travelled to visit.'

North Norfolk artist Claire Knight said: 'I think it is an extremely valuable opportunity for artists to gain confidence, get feedback and to guide the general public to a studio they may not otherwise have been aware of.'

Visit www.nnopenstudios.org.uk