Art studio tour signs brighten my day.

For an artist to let you into their private space is a treasure and an honour.

If you have never ‘done’ a Studio Tour or wanted to do one but not known ‘how to’, here is my listicle:

1. Get the brochure ahead of time and circle your ‘must see’ stops. Include at least one artist who is totally out of your comfort zone. Most tourist bureaus have copies of upcoming events brochures and each artist should also have copies. Or go to the website and print it out. Or use a mobile site as your map.
   
2. Take a friend!
3. Plan a route but don’t feel you have to stick to it. Plan at least 10-15 minutes minimum at each stop. Of course some stops will surprise you and you will feel you’d like to stay for hours!
4. Take snacks in the car. Some studios treat their guests with light refreshments but not all artists do this, nor should you expect it. View this as a bonus. There may not be a restaurant nearby.
5. Wear easily-removable footwear. You may be asked to take off your shoes as you trek through someone’s home.
6. Make sure to meet the artist in person. Ask the artist one question about their work.
7. Ask before taking photos and posting anything on Instagram. Ask each artist for their hash tag.
8. Plan to purchase one piece of art at least at one studio. Yes! Everyone can afford a greeting card or bookmark! Whether it be an expensive original work or a greeting card it is amazing what you will find and these artists really want your support. Take cash and your cheque book. Many studios are not set up to exchange credit cards or debit. Some are, but don’t count on it.
9. As a fun exercise, choose your favourite piece at each studio and explain why to your travelling companions. Sort of like a treasure hunt at each stop.
10. Notice the surroundings. Sometimes the outside of the studio and yard are just as fascinating.

Stretch out of your comfort zone. Let me know how it goes.

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