Garden Art

The last two weekends in September, Southwest Washington entertains art enthusiasts with ARTrails. About 60 artist participated in this year's studio tour through the region's historic communities and the back roads of Lewis County. The studio tour is free and self-guided.

What I have learned over the past few years is that you can only do a handfull of artist's studios in one day as each one is a delight and requires time to visit. I do find myself visiting several of the same artists, but always add a couple of new ones.

This year my new artist is a rare gem; Ron & Victoria Smith. They create metal yard art welded from recycled "found objects" collected throughout the West which include farm machinery parts, garden tools, car parts, horseshoes, ranch items, antique items, and the list goes on......

It was love at first sight! I saw the sculpture I wanted as we entered their driveway. The bird has found a happy home in my front yard.

Is that cool or what?!?!?!

The wings move with the wind!

ARTrails of Southwest Washington

Today was the first day of ARTrails of Southwest Washington 2009 Studio Tour.

It is the 7th Annual Juried Artrails studio tour which provides a rare opportunity for the public to meet artists in their studio/workplace and to observe techniques of work in progress.

In addition, ARTrails seeks opportunities to promote the arts and the work of member artist through exhibits, workshops, and educational programs in coordination with area businesses, schools, and organizations.

Through all of these efforts ARTrails promotes recognition that the arts are a significant component of Southwest Washington life and that many fine, dedicated artists live and work in the area. ARTrails is intended to aid and support artists which providing an inspiring and enjoyable educational experience for the interested public.

You can get a good idea of the art and participating artists (over 60 artists!)at the Exhibition Gallery in the Historic Centralia Train Depot on 210 Railway Avenue in Centralia, Washington. My good friend and I always began here and then map out our day. We have some favorite artists which we visit each year, but managed to add a couple of new artists in the mix to make for a fabulous, fun day.

Don't feel like you missed out on a great opportunity.......ARTrails will be happening next weekend, September 26th & 27th, too.