ARTISTS across Buckinghamshire are preparing to show off their work. The annual Bucks Visual Arts Open Studios is starting later this month, with 156 venues and 270 artists taking part.

Bucks Open Studios has been running for 22 years, and celebrates the variety of art and craft work - including paintings, prints, books, jewellery, photographs and sculptures - created in the county.

This year, it is run by the Visual Images Group, and throughout the event, there will be exhibitions, demonstrations, sales, and a chance for visitors to have a go themselves.

Some exhibiting artists this year include Central St Martin's graduate Ann Engel, who uses printing, digital imagery and drawing in her work; oil painter Carol Bagni, who creates representations of local people and places; Heather Hunter, who makes beautifully crafted books and Lynne Andrews, whose work challenges viewers' perceptions of art.

Seven artists from Mill House Farm - Pat Andersz, John Applegarth, Ilse Ginger, Jennifer McAllister, Brent Quilliam, Margaret Tapenell and Jane Waller - are opening their Stoke Mandeville studios, and their work includes a mix of 2D and 3D art.

High Wycombe based Commercial Square Studios, home to professional contemporary artists, are also joining the event.

One of the artists, Patricia Lynch, says: "Buckinghamshire is home to many skilled artists, working in various different mediums, and High Wycombe has a vibrant arts community."

"Bucks Visual Arts fortnight is a chance for us to meet the community and show the kind of work we produce."

The 14th and 15th Century interior of St Dunstan's Church, Monks Risborough is also the home of an exhibition featuring eight artists. With furniture, woodcarving, printmaking, painted porcelain, photography, handmade books and jewellery, as well as demonstrations, the range on offer is diverse and interesting.

Bucks Visual Arts 2007 - Open Studios runs from Saturday, June 16 until Sunday, July 1. Details: 01296 614283. A free full colour directory is available from Tourist Information Centres, libraries, art galleries, museums, art centres, art shops and book shops around Buckinghamshire.