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Tuesday, April 2, 2019

Clock is ticking for Allegany Artisans to register for 2019 Studio Tour

Allegany Artisans has held our Studio Tour every October since 1987. Local residents and tourists alike enjoy a unique opportunity to shop for high quality handcrafted items, meet the artisans and view demonstrations of the creative process.      
Art in many forms is available in studios across the county. From wearable art like tiny earrings, to creations as massive as timber frame homes, to the fine art to decorate it’s walls, variety is one of the reasons people return to visit the tour year after year.       
New members must apply to participate and their acceptance is subject to jury approval of their work. Since many veteran members will take a year or two off, every member must apply yearly. Their work in a new medium must also meet jury approval.       
This process ensures that the variety and quality of the work offered to the public remains exceptional year after year. Patrons can return to artisans whose work they collect to add to their collection, or they can meet new artists, learn their story and observe new demonstrations. They can find fresh ideas and pieces to enhance their changing styles.       
Current and former members have included self taught hobbyists whose work has earned national and international acclaim, to university schooled artisans who are masters in their chosen craft. Talent can be found in every corner of Allegany County. Artists and crafters who work in studios here and wish to participate in the 2019 Allegany Artisans Studio Tour can find an application on our website www.alleganyartisans.com (click on membership). Contact information can also be found on the website. Applications must be received by Friday, April 12, at 8:00 PM. Returning members please note that this deadline is several weeks earlier than in previous years.        
Allegany Artisans board of directors has been hard at work organizing this year’s tour. To stay current with a changing market we have added events to our calendar. Allegany Artisans and Friends is in Alfred on June 8, 2019, some Artisans take part in Art Walk, and we are coordinating with other area interests to maximize the art experience in Allegany County. 
We are also developing a scholarship fund, enabled by a generous memorial gift from the family of Jaunita Barrone-Detrich.  Other area businesses have also asked to be part of this effort. Any additional donations to this fund are greatly appreciated, as they will allow us to award a yearly scholarship to an Allegany County art student, helping us meet an underserved need. We anticipate the first scholarship to be awarded in 2020.    
Our membership and board are excited to move forward with our new efforts while retaining the special identity of the Allegany Artisans Studio Tour as the original and premier event of its kind in the region. We are hoping the public and new and returning artists will join us. Remember, application deadline is April 12, 2019 at 8:00.