An island artists' colony in Brentford is opening its gangway to the public this weekend.

Visitors to Johnsons Island, across the footbridge from The Brewery Tap, in Catherine Wheel Road, can browse work by painters, jewellers, sculptors and other artists from the community tomorrow (Saturday, November 22) and Sunday, from 11am to 6pm. There is a preview tonight from 6pm-9pm.

As well as doing some early Christmas shopping, it is a chance to explore the island, which will be illuminated by lanterns and fairy lights, and perhaps spot some of the wildlife which inspires the artists.

You can see the artists at work in their studios and enjoy festive treats, including chestnuts roasted on an open fire during the free open weekend at the romantic setting on the Grand Union Canal, a stone's throw from Syon Park.

To give you a taste of what to expect, former Take a Break editor John Dale met the artists and shot the film below of them at work.

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On Sunday, from 2pm-3pm, musician Sheila Moylan will play the Irish harp and sing for visitors in her studio on the island.

Across the water, The Brewery Tap will have a barbecue going throughout the weekend, and a selection of the artists' work will be on display inside the pub.

For more about the artists at Johnsons Island, visit www.johnsonsislandartists.com