Henstead artist scoops top prize

AN artist from Henstead scooped the top prize at the Suffolk Open Studios Showcase Exhibition.Annie Rice, who works from her studio at Henstead Arts and Crafts Centre, won “Best in Show” at the Blackthorpe Barns, near Bury St Edmund, which displayed artwork by over 130 Suffolk artists.

AN artist from Henstead took the top prize at the Suffolk Open Studios Showcase Exhibition.

Annie Rice, who works from her studio at Henstead Arts and Crafts Centre, won Best in Show at the Blackthorpe Barns, near Bury St Edmunds, which displayed artwork by over 130 Suffolk artists.

The award was given for "the most outstanding work in the exhibition" and she also received a gift voucher for �250 worth of art materials from Great Art.

Her five paintings, in watercolour and inks, were praised for their colour and strength.

Annie is opening her studio to the public tomorrow and Sunday from 11am to 5pm as part of the Suffolk Open Studios event taking place all over Suffolk.

Suffolk Open Studios is the premier event of the year for the region's artists, offering the opportunity to welcome art lovers into their studios, discuss their work and influences, and hopefully find a new audience for their art.

At Annie's event this weekend, other units will also be open, as well as the new cafe.

Further information about Annie Rice and open studios weekends can be found on her website at www.arttuition.com and www.suffolkopenstudios.co. uk.