Among the many options tugging at people this weekend is the Shasta Artist Open Studio Tour. Many of the north state’s finest painters, sculptures and photographers will display their works in their studios from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday in Redding.
“Goblets” by S.A. Barone
Detailed maps of the studio sites may be picked up at the Old City Hall Arts Center (1313 Market St.) or Turtle Bay Exploration Park (840 Sundial Bridge Drive). The maps include detailed instructions on how to reach each studio as well as short descriptions on what work is being displayed.
You can also download a map and read more about participating artists at the event’s Web site.
“Camden House Porch” photo
composite by Ann Beier
There’s nothing like meeting artists in the places where they create art. It’s an incredible view into the process of doing art. And the process is everything.
There are 36 artists on this year’s tour and for a great preview, go see the current group exhibit at the Old City Hall Art Gallery, where artists each have a piece showing. In just a quick breeze around the room, I found myself wanting to visit every studio on the tour.
There are too many highlights to mention, but I have written about many of these people over the years, and it’s an incredible body of work that they’ve complied. When you group them all together, it becomes apparent that there’s a significant art scene happening here in far Northern California.
A “Cloud Escape” by Tegwin Matenaer
I love these kinds of events because often the images and forms come flashing back to me. Sometimes, of course, you have this thought right away: “Oh, I’ve gotta have that,” or at least, “Man, I wish I could afford that.” But even if you’re not treating it as early Christmas shopping, I think there’s something fundamentally healthy about viewing great numbers of soulful original creations.
Also, don’t forget that the 2nd Saturday Art Hop is happening this weekend. The weather’s cool. It’s a good time to get out.
