County artists open their studios for tour weekend

Look for the new blue and white Studio Tour signs at participating studios and galleries throughout Prince Edward County. Steven Draper PolePics photo

Thirty-four artists and studios will open their doors for the 18th Annual Prince Edward County Studio Tour for three days – Friday Sept 16 to Sunday Sept 18 – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“Prince Edward County has an extremely vibrant art community that is a vital part of the County’s tourism industry bringing thousands of visitors to the County each year,” says Joy Williams, chair of the 2011 tour. “The Studio Tour weekend is a marvelous time to meet the talented artists in their studios, and see first-hand how they work. Tour artists are reporting the new Studio Tour permanent signs, along with the annual brochure, have been enticing many visitors to their studios over the summer.”

“As with any non-profit organization that is run mainly by volunteers, we are always aware of the both the costs and the amount of work involved,” says Wendy Mathews who will chair the 2012 tour. “Businesses in the County have regularly supported The Studio Tour, but each year there is the need to secure new funding and encourage volunteer involvement.”

The popular tradition of a gift basket prize draw, with items from many of the participating artists, will take place again this year. Ballots are available during the weekend at all tour locations.

Take a virtual tour at www.pecstudiotour.com. Visitors can join the Facebook group and follow on Twitter @2011StudioTour.