PREPARATIONS have already begun for this year's Somerset Art Weeks open studios event.

The annual arts festival will see the Ilminster Arts Centre and more than 200 venues and studios across the county open their doors to the public between September 18 and October 3.

Artists of regional and national repute, such as Michael Fairfax, Pauline Rook and James Lynch, will also be opening their studios, alongside an increasing number of emerging talented artists.

The event will feature a diverse range of work, from pottery and watercolour to new media and installation.

A full colour guide and map is now available - to request a copy e-mail info@somersetartwork.org.uk or call 01458-253800.