The Open Studios Art Tour will have its most participation from artists in the recent history of the annual tradition when it takes place Saturday and Sunday throughout San Benito County.
“At least in the last 10 years, this is our largest participation ever,” said Jennifer Laine, executive director for the San Benito County Arts Council overseeing the event.
The tour has 48 participating artists this year, which Laine attributed to the growing community and increased access.
“We have more people moving to the community,” Laine said. “That increases both the artists and art supporters, and art consumers as well. Also, the access is really important.”
Two years ago, the arts council created a new category for first-time participants. It is just $50 for the newcomers, while the regular fee is $90, still relatively low compared with other nearby communities’ art tours.
Additionally, she noted there will be a Kids Passport available at the arts council sites on Fifth Street in downtown Hollister. It is similar to a scavenger hunt. If the youths obtain six artists’ signatures along the way, they can enter for a drawing for a free art camp at the ARTspace Annex.
“It’s a fun event,” she said. “It builds community.”
Details on the Open Studios Art Tour
Who: 48 participating artists
What: Tour of artists’ work at homes, other sites
When: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
More Information: http://sanbenitoarts.org/open-studios-art-tour-maps-available-here-april-13th-14th/
See San Benito Live videos from last year’s tour below:
