Fine artists and craft masters from Parksville to Black Creek open their doors for public visits and direct buying May 27-29, for the next Central Island Studio Tour.
More than 65 studios and artist-run galleries, representing over 170 Vancouver Island artists, offer a wide array of world-class craftsmanship, creativity, skill and techniques. From fused glass to Raku pottery to abstract contemporary acrylics, visitors are sure to find something to love.
There are many studios located in and near the Comox Valley area, offering Vancouver Island residents and visitors some great excuses to venture to new places.
Discover exceptional fibre arts in Deep Bay; a candlemaker, beadmaker and realist landscape painter in Fanny Bay; diverse landscape painters in Bowser; sculptors and contemporary painters in Union Bay; inventive and unique modern fine wood art and contemporary abstracts in Parksville; and high-calibre arts and crafts-style furniture in Black Creek.
Many of the tour artists have impressive exhibit lists, including appearances at high-profile galleries across North America, and inclusion in collections around the world. Others are just getting their feet wet after making a long-awaited career or life changes to honour their artist inside. Among them all – no matter what the medium – you’ll find a passion for the work that supersedes everything else. This is apparent in the profusion of work and the vastness of subjects.
Expanded to three days this spring, the Central Island Studio Tour is an epic journey, and even with a teleporter you may not get to see everything. With best intentions, map out your “must-sees” and pack a lunch – but expect to get side-tracked.
It’s easy to stay longer than planned when you wander into a studio full of work that you find unexpectedly fascinating, or strike up a conversation with an artist or fan to discover a shared love of a particular style.
Take your time, drive with friends, make a weekend of it.
For complete details, artist profiles and virtual galleries, visit CentralIslandTour.com
Full colour map guides are available at numerous locations throughout the region – see website for details, or to download a printable studio list.