September 16 – 18, 2011

Thirty-four artists and studios will open their doors for the 18th Annual Prince Edward County Studio Tour for 3 days, Friday Sept 16 until Sunday Sept 18, and the Executive Committee is pleased to make an important announcement:

“On behalf of the Studio Tour Executive and all the Tour members, we are very pleased that Wendy Mathews has agreed to accept the role of Chair for the 2012 Tour,” announced Joy Williams, Chair of the 2011 Prince Edward County Studio Tour. “Although not an artist herself, she has a deep understanding of the challenges in creating a successful Studio Tour, and her professional background and skills will be a great benefit to the organization.”

Joy has been involved with the tour for many years, and was Co-Chair for 2 years before assuming the full Chair role. “Every year, the highlight is always the Tour weekend – when all the time and effort of all the members pays off, and the public enjoys 3 days of exploring the world-of-art.”

Prince Edward County has an extremely vibrant art community that is a vital part of the County’s tourism industry bringing thousands of visitors to the County each year. The Studio Tour weekend is a marvelous time to meet the talented artists in their studios, and see first hand how they work. Tour artists are reporting that the new Studio Tour permanent signs, along with the annual brochure, have been enticing many visitors to their studios over the summer.

Ready to lead this popular cultural event in its 19th year, Wendy is well aware of the many challenges. “As with any non-profit organization that is run mainly by volunteers, we are always aware of the both the costs and the amount of work involved. Businesses in the County have regularly supported The Studio Tour, but each year there is the need to secure new funding and encourage volunteer involvement.”

In addition to enjoying life in the County, Wendy works as an education advisor to a UN recognized community development project in rural Cambodia. Schools have become much livelier places of learning since she and her Cambodian colleagues have shown teachers how to use the arts in their classroom programs. Wendy lives in Wellington with her husband, photographer Rick Matthews

The popular tradition of a gift basket prize draw, with items from many of the participating artists, will take place. Ballots are available during the weekend at all tour locations and The Waring House Inn.

This year’s sponsors include: The Waring House Inn, Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership, and the Prince Edward County Arts Council.

The Information Centre at The Waring House Inn is open Friday – Sunday, September 16-18 from 10am to 5pm.

Tour Dates: September 16-17-18
Time: 10am to 5pm daily
Admission: FREE.

In addition to a virtual tour at www.pecstudiotour.com, visitors can join our Facebook group and Twitter @ 2011StudioTour.

Tags: Art, Artisans, artists, Local Art, Studio Tour