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Saanich Peninsula ArtSea Studio Tour brings art lovers to the artists

Event set for Oct. 14 and 15
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Wearable art has been featured previously on the annual studio tour. (Photo courtesy of ArtSea)

Tanara Oliveira/News Staff

On Oct. 14 and 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day, the annual ArtSea Studio Tour will show off Vancouver Island’s long history of art.

This beloved event, which is known for being one of the longest-running studio tours in the region, offers a fascinating look into the exciting world of local art.

This free, self-guided walk goes through Sidney, North Saanich and Central Saanich. It is a treasure trove of creativity, with 31 talented artists at over 20 interesting spots. Whether you love art or just want to be inspired for a day, this is a chance to experience a wide range of artistic mediums and expressions, from the intricate craftsmanship of pottery to the bright strokes of watercolour paintings, plus the artistry of wood carving to the rich textures of fibre arts.

Some of the artists taking part open their own workshops or studio gardens, giving visitors an up-close look at how they work. Others get together at places like the McTavish Academy of Art, the Bevan Bistro and Russell Nurseries, where a group of Piers Island artists assemble.

Robert Waddell, a wood carver, and Linda Mulhall, a mixed-media artist, are two new artists who will be on the tour this year. They will bring exciting new ideas to the event. Many artists will give live demos and tell the stories behind their work to enthusiastic crowds of people who want to learn more about the art.

This event has become an important part of Vancouver Island’s culture, with several hundred people taking part every year. Use the online map at www.artsea.ca to plan your trip through art.

This amazing event is put on by ArtSea Community Arts Council, a nonprofit group on the Saanich Peninsula whose goal is to promote interest and respect for all kinds of art and cultural activities. Their commitment lasts all year, and they offer a variety of cultural programs. These include a gallery that is open all year and can be rented out by the week, the beautiful Salish Sea Lantern Festival, the ArtWalk in Sidney, an interactive arts directory, interesting exhibits at Coast Capital Savings, and a beautiful Sculpture Walk along the seashore. ArtSea also gives out bursaries, awards, and scholarships. This helps create a thriving arts community that welcomes artists of all levels, from newcomers to pros, as well as anyone who is interested in the arts.