Artists are opening their workplaces to curious minds next month.
The tenth annual Quadra Island Studio Tour takes place June 2 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and June 3 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Artists will open their studios for this popular weekend event which features a wide range of artistic styles and mediums that include painting, sculpture, pottery, glass, jewelry, printmaking, woodwork, fibre, instrument making, bicycle making and even a winery. There are lots of chances to win art prizes too.
This year a record 40 artists will show their work at 26 studios plus the Quadra Community Centre, where a group “sampler” exhibition will provide an overview of the studios on the tour. While at the Community Centre enjoy a quick lunch or snack at the Kosmic Kafeteria, which will be featuring local seafood and desserts.
Each year the tour takes visitors to out-of-the-way corners of the island and lets them discover the artistic domains of its artists as well as their latest creations. The artists will be on hand to talk about their work and many will be demonstrating their techniques.
Some new faces this year are Kathryn Manry, who does exquisite renderings of water and birds, Maureen Maryka, whose impressionistic landscapes are full of colour, Tracy Tomlinson who makes beautiful, functional guitars from cigar boxes and Marni McMahan who creates gorgeous, richly-coloured quilts.
Island Joy Rides will again be offering The Art of Joy. Tour the studios by bike with knowledgeable guides and enjoy a great picnic lunch along the way. Bikes and helmets are available if required.
Tickets for the Studio Tour are $5 each (kids 12 and under free) and are available at the Campbell River Art Gallery, Comox Valley Art Gallery, Impressions Custom Framing, Hummingbird Office and Art Supply, Quadra Island Tourist Info Centre and at Quadra resorts.
For more information, call (250) 830-8522 or visit www.quadraislandarts.com