Making Orange County
artists visible is not an easy task. There are an
estimated 700-800 artists of all kinds in Orange County. Visual
artists and craftspeople have relatively few opportunities
to be seen and appreciated in the county. So the advantages
of the Tour to the artist are obvious. Artists enjoy direct
contact with supporters and gain a much wider exposure of their
work. And Tour visitors enjoy meeting the artists in a casual
atmosphere, viewing a wide range of the artist’s work,
and being able to ask questions about the artist’s or
craftsperson’s process. In addition to seeing work the
artist has on hand for the Tour, visitors are welcome to ask
about commissions for larger works, serial pieces, portraits,
or installations. This means a piece is made to order and may
require a down payment and contract. Many artists are
receptive to installment payment plans for more expensive works
and often will allow buyers to take artwork home on approval
for a few days.
Studio visitors always say they
enjoy seeing the context and environment in which the work is
made—how studios reflect the individual artist’s
character and perspective. They say that the educational and
recreational value of the Tour is just as important to them as
the opportunity to actually purchase a work of art to take home.
Many are curious to get an inside look at what it really means
to create a work of art from scratch. Others come for inspiration
to actually take up an art form themselves. And the Tour is a
great experience for children of all ages.The Orange County Open
Studio Tour brings artists and the community together in celebration
of the creativity and diversity of the arts in our area.
Contact Gordon Jameson, (919)
932-3438 or email Gordon. if
you have further questions about the Tour or the application
process.