Oct 11, 2018
9 min. read
Autumn brings a canvas of colour to Ontario, which might be why it’s a popular time for studio tours, when artists invite the public into their workspaces to watch their process and perhaps even pick up a one-of-a-kind piece to bring home. Here are five self-guided studio tours worth the drive from the GTA.
1. Whitchurch-Stouffville Studio Tour
October 13–14, 2018
This annual studio tour brings together an eclectic group of artisans. This year, over 30 of them will open their homes and studios. Expect to find a wide range of mediums, from paint, metal and glass to sculpture and pottery. The self-guided tour also includes a stop at the Latcham Art Centre, which holds exhibitions, artist talks and art classes.
2. Innisfil Studio Tour
November 3–4, 2018
This 26-year-old tour showcases both established and up-and-coming artists, giving the public a chance to watch live demonstrations and talk to them about their work. Just over an hour’s drive north of the GTA on the shores of Lake Simcoe, this year’s self-guided tour features 18 artists, with works including painting, woodturning, handmade glass beads and jewelry.
3. Art in Action Burlington Studio Tour
November 3–4, 2018
In its 16th year, this annual tour allows visitors to step into homes and studios, watch demonstrations and purchase original works of art. This year features 28 artists across nine studios, including painters, photographers, printmakers, glass artists, fibre artists and sculptors.
4. Hills of Erin Studio Tour
November 3–4, 2018
This self-guided studio tour has flourished over the years as a showcase for craftspeople living in the Erin-Hillsburgh community. This year marks the tour’s 30th anniversary, which will bring together 13 artists at the Teak Barn, offering a variety of artistic media: acrylic, encaustic, watercolour, oil painting, woodturning, bronze sculpture, porcelain; ceramic, pottery, mixed media, fibre and silk.
5. Midhurst Arts and Crafts Home Tour
November 24–25, 2018
The small community of Midhurst opens its doors just in time for the holiday shopping season. This self-guided tour, which has been running for over 30 years, features nine stops with local artists and artisans showcasing everything from fine art to woodturning, jewelry and glass art. After, take a break with sandwiches and sweets at the volunteer-run tea room at the Midhurst United Church.
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Image credit: istock/AlexD75,Whitchurch-Stouffville Studio Tour Courtesy of Ray McNeice,Innisfil Studio Tour Courtesy of Sue Trottier,Art in Action Burlington,Hills of Erin Studio Tour Courtesy of Karen Brown,and Midhurst Arts and Crafts Courtesy of Judi Fenton