ART trails are becoming a popular annual event throughout the country and, this Easter, Newcastle Emlyn artists will be opening the doors to their art studios for the public to peruse.

If you fancy seeing new exhibitions of west Wales artists’ and visiting local studios, town is the place to be as local artists are co-ordinating their studio opening times, and even putting on special exhibitions, as part of a mini art trail.

The idea was the brainchild of artists’ group The Square Pegs.

Glenn Ibbitson, a member of the group, explained: “People like to be able to see several artists in one visit. The studios and exhibitions are quite close together so it’s easy to visit several and make a real day of it.

“Art trails bring the artist and the public together, an important part of the creative process.

“An unexpected response by a visitor seeing a piece fresh for the first time may suggest to me a new way of working or a different approach and improve my work.

“In addition to the variety of artists based in the area, Newcastle Emlyn’s High Street is home to many independent art and craft-based businesses; Y Wiber Art Supplies, Cross Patch Quilting, Fair & Fabulous, and The Maker’s Mark.

“Skallywag sells clothing designed to ‘stand out from the crowd’, while Flibbertygibbet offers a bespoke tattoo design service. Theatre is provided by the town’s renowned Attic Players.

“This springtime, forget Parisian café society or St Ives and visit Newcastle Emlyn!”

Right in the heart of the town, in Cawdor Hall, is the Square Pegs’ exhibition of high-quality art and fine craft.

Members include Carole King – painting, printmaking and hand-stitched book binding; Martin Weatherhead of Snail Trail Weaving; Yvette Brown – pewter work and bird-themed ‘book theatres’; woodworker Steve Thompson; painter Zara Kuchi; and Glenn Ibbitson, painter and printmaker.

Also included are glass landscapes and jewellery created by hand and kiln by Moriath Glass, which reflect the vast, ever-changing landscape of west Wales.