Staged in the grounds of Waterperry House, Oxfordshire, artists set up their studios in one of the many marquees. They work in front of visitors, giving them the rare opportunity to observe the creative process at first hand.

Art in Action champions art in many disciplines and forms, from the traditional to the contemporary. In 2010 artists will demonstrate their expertise in Painting, Sculpture, Drawing and Printmaking, Ceramics, Calligraphy and Illustration, Glass, Metalwork and Jewellery, Textiles and Woodwork. We are delighted to welcome a new section, International Art, featuring artists from around the world working in numerous disciplines.

One of the many unique features of Art in Action is the large selection of practical classes on offer. There are opportunities for approximately 4000 visitors to take a class in a wide and eclectic number of subjects from mosaic making for 3-7 yrs to Japanese style bookmaking for the over 16s. Half of the classes are run by some of the UK’s most prestigious and established colleges and institutions, including the Drawing School of the New English Art Club, West Dean College, the Prince’s School of Traditional Art and the Guild of Glass Engravers. A number of classes can be booked in advance online (www.artinaction.org.uk), but demand is high. Following a class, enthusiasts can purchase art materials and publications to refine their skills or just get started. There is also the Craft Market where more than 100 designer-makers sell quality goods.

In addition, Art in Action offers fine music, performing artists and storytelling for children. There are lectures organised by NADFAS (National Association of Decorative and Fine Art Societies) and visitors can take guided tours of the beautiful Waterperry gardens and the exquisite frescoes on the walls of Waterperry House that were completed in 2006 - a 10-year project. There is a wide range of refreshments: cream teas from the Pear Tree Restaurant, a good selection of wines, champagne and Pimm’s and numerous organic and artisan food stalls throughout the site. Art in Action is truly a celebration of creativity as well as a great day out for families and art lovers. People come year after year – often, they say, as much for the atmosphere as for the works on show.