Annual Statewide Showcase for Vermont Artists

Open Studio Weekend May 24-25 Blends Vermont's Spring with Creativity

MONTPELIER, VT, April 2008 -- Vermont's natural scenic beauty is enhanced each spring when Vermont artists and craftspeople invite visitors to their working studios. This year the annual Open Studio Weekend sponsored by the Vermont Crafts Council is May 24-25. More than 260 studios throughout the state will be open.

Additional information about Open Studio Weekend can be found online at www.vermontcrafts.com or by calling the Vermont Crafts Council at 802-223-3380. Open Studio Weekend is one of the signature events of Vermont Cultural Heritage Days May 24-July 6.  For more information, visit www.VermontVacation.com.

The Vermont Crafts Council publishes a free map booklet with directions to participating sites. The Vermont Studio Tour Guide is available at Vermont Information Centers, from individual studios and galleries, and by request.

Open Studio Weekend features the work of glass blowers, jewelers, printmakers, potters, furniture makers, weavers, ironworkers, painters, sculptors, quilt makers and wood carvers. Many galleries will host gallery talks and feature special exhibits in conjunction with this annual event. Open Studio Weekend represents a unique opportunity to meet a wide variety of artists and craftspeople in their studios, some of which are only open to the public during this weekend.

"Vermont continues to become increasingly well known for its vast community of local artists and craftspeople," said Governor Jim Douglas. "What makes Open Studio Weekend so special is that Vermonters and visitors can meet a variety of artists in person and see their work as it is being produced."

The Vermont Crafts Council created Open Studio Weekend to increase the visibility of artists and craftspeople in Vermont and to foster an appreciation for the creative process and the role that artists and craftspeople play in the vitality of Vermont's communities.