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“And don’t try to do 20 studios in one day!” deLuque says. “Plan to visit six, with no more than two others as alternates—if you aren’t already exhausted.” He also encourages people to visit ARTS Obispo’s Visual Artists Directory online at artsobispo.org. “If you see an artist’s work in the Open Studios catalog and think you might like their work, check out more photos of their work in the Directory. It’s free and it can help you decide which artists are a mustsee on your tour.” Kishiyama encourages people to talk to the artists once they arrive at a studio. “I tell them to come for the art, but stay for the experience.” She also encourages parents to bring their older children, who she says are often “hungry” for creative interactions with art and those who make it. Chaffin-Tinglof agrees. “Ask questions,” she says. “Something made you curious to see a particular artist or group of artists in their studios. Learn something about their process or materials. Perhaps even get inspired to follow your own artistic path.” DeLuque’s final words for Open Studios Art Tour artists and visitors alike? “Have fun!”
Patricia Griffin with etched stoneware from her Woodcut Series.
A great way to do just that is to attend the OSAT Kick-Off Party during Art After Dark in downtown SLO October 5 at Court Street Terrace adjacent to Pottery Barn and Sephora. Party-goers can buy raffle tickets for a chance to win $300 in “ART Bucks” to spend during OSAT 2012.
Charlotte Alexander is Executive Director of ARTS Obispo, the local partner of the California Arts Council that advances the visual, literary and performing arts in SLO County.
N MacB EW In sto ook Pro ck no w!
N MacB EW In sto ook Pro ck no w!
O C T O B E R
2012
Journal PLUS