Allegany Artisans 31st Annual Studio Tour is this weekend, Saturday October 13 and Sunday October 14 10 am to 5 pm,. Pre Tour reception at select studios Friday October 12 5-8 pm
Now entering their fourth decade , the Allegany Artisans Studio tour has become the leading autumn cultural event in Allegany County.
Gaining popularity each year with participants as well as the public, the tour has grown this year to 40 artisans displaying their wares and giving demonstrations in 32 studio locations around Allegany County.
The tour began in 1987 when 10 local artisans got together to find a way to market their wares as a group.
Modeled after other artisans open studio events gaining popularity in more urban areas, the format was changed by the original Allegany Artisans to reflect the more rural nature of the area. A co-op was tried, with artisans combining their work to be sold in a single area, and a "trail' with single studios open on varying weekends attempted. They settled on the current format which has been a success ever since.
Membership in the Allegany Artisans is fluid, with new members joining every year, and some leaving while others return. This combination of offerings, old standbys and exciting new surprises makes the Studio Tour unique every year.
What is not new, however, is the quality of the handcrafted items you will find. Membership is by jury process only, ensuring only the finest local craftsmanship will be found. And that will include everything from 2 dimensional art in paintings, prints, note cards and calendars, pottery in art and functional pieces, wearable art in jewelry and fiber, wax whimsy, to timber frame homes and the furniture to fill them, and children's books to read by the fireside.
The tour provides a " Buy Local' experience for area residents and draws a substantial influx of out-of-area shoppers to the county. The significant positive effect of the Allegany Artisans tour, in both economic and cultural value has recently been recognized by the Allegany County Board of Legislators, who declared October Allegany Artisans Month.
We hope everyone will take advantage of this unique opportunity an join us this weekend October 13 and14. For more details visit http://www.AlleganyArtisans.