The First Annual Artist Studios at Fearrington Village Open studio Tour was a huge success!
For the tour goer, it provided a free art-lovers outing, a chance to discover the wonders of Fearrington Village, a welcome into the artists’ studios, a glimpse at their creative process and a close-up view of works on display and in progress.
For the artists, pooling their resources, talents and time strengthened the artists’ sense of community and supported their common goals. It provides a way of getting their art seen and an opportunity to sell works directly out of their studios.
Planning began a year ago. Some of the artists had never participated in a tour. A workshop was held. Art was professionally photographed and a full color brochure with map indicating each studio designed. 5000 brochures were printed and distributed throughout Chatham county and to art friendly businesses and organizations in Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Cary, Chapel Hill and Hillsborough. Press releases, newspaper articles, social media– blogs and Facebook, calendar listings, two media preview tours, posters, postcards and e-invites promoted the tour. Banners announced the event and directional signs guided the tour goers. The artists’ work was showcased at The Gathering Place in Fearrington Village and exhibited during a well-attended, wonderfully elegant preview reception at Galloway Ridge at Fearrington.
The artists worked for months in preparation. The anticipation and excitement mounted. Studios were organized and new work created.
The result was a resounding success! Visitors came, not just local residents but from other counties. And they were not disappointed. They discovered beautifully crafted art in a wide variety. Something for everyone. Contemporary and traditional, whimsy and sublime. If they were surprised by the artists’ professionalism, it was not evident nor expressed. They came with their checkbooks, cash and bankcards and purchased art!
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