It’s Studio Tour time again on Quadra Island.
June 4-5 are the dates for the 9th annual event which features 35 artists showing their work at 25 island studios and the Quadra Community Centre where a group “sampler” exhibition provides an overview of what the various studios have to offer.
While you’re at the community centre, stop for a delicious lunch or snack at the Gallery Bistro, featuring local seafood, desserts and refreshments. Fill in a form to win door prizes made by the artists.
The Studio Tour offers a glimpse into the secret corners of Quadra where the artists are normally hidden away with their latest creations. It’s a great way to explore the island and experience a wide range of art-making that will be sure to surprise and delight.
A few of the perennial favourites who will be back on the tour this year include William Van Orden whose perfect replicas of fantastic sea creatures are augmented by whimsical and poignant creations that reflect his personal commentary on how we are treating the environment.
Sam Whittingham, the worlds’ fastest man on a bicycle, will again be opening his studio at Naked Bikes where he produces custom handmade bicycles.
I Blew It Glass Studio is always a favourite. Watch the glassblowers turn molten glass into beautiful functional and sculptural creations.
Kevin at Discovery Metal Creations is unveiling his gigantic welded sculpture/gate/bench “Luck of the Inukshuk.” Guess how many horseshoes were used to make the piece and win a prize.
Some of the new artists this year are Mignon Smienk at Open Bay Farm and Fibre who creates painted fabrics, wool and fibre from her own sheep, and Lisa Murphy-Quigley of Outer Island Photography whose colour and black and white photography captures the aesthetic beauty in our natural and human altered surroundings.
Tickets are $5 available at the Campbell River Art Gallery, Impressions Custom Framing, Hummingbird Office and Art Supply and the Quadra Tourist Info Centre. Visit quadraislandarts.com