See artists in their natural habitat

Tickets are on sale now for the the 13th Annual Whidbey Island Open tour of art studios.

Tour dates are Sept. 26-27 when 93 artists will open their doors for two days, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sept. 26, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sept. 27.

The “Art Safari” allows guests to meet “dangerously creative” artists and purchase art directly from them in their “natural studio habitats.” Proceeds from the event provide scholarships and grants for local aspiring artists.

The $10 ticket includes a map of studio locations and a four-color 2010 wall calendar featuring the participating artists’ work. Organizers recommend purchasing tickets early in order to preplan self-guided routes. Free preview exhibits showcasing artists’ work will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Crockett Barn, Coupeville, Sept. 19, 20, 26, 27, and Open Door Gallery + Coffee, Bayview, Sept. 19-27.

Tickets may also be purchased online at www.whidbeyopenstudiotour.org, or by calling the Pacific Northwest Art School at 678-3396, or the tour office at 360-221-4121. The event is presented by the Whidbey Islands Arts Council.

To read profiles of the artists visit the blog at whidbeyislandopenstudiotour.blogspot.com.

Ticket outlets in Oak Harbor include Bayleaf, Deception Pass Visitor Center, Garry Oak Gallery and Whidbey Vision Care.

Coupeville: Hunter Art Studio, Miriam’s Espresso, Pacific Northwest Art School, Penn Cove Pottery and Windjammer Gallery.

Greenbank: Rob Schouten Gallery and Holmes Harbor Cellars.

Freeland: 1504 Coffee Bar, Catherine DeWitt Framing and Whidbey Vision Care.

Bayview: Open Door Gallery + Coffee.

Ken’s Corner: Pickle’s Deli.

Langley: 2nd St. Wine Shop and Tasting Room. Eddy’s, Island Angel Chocolates, Karlson/Gray Gallery, Mukilteo Coffee Company and Whidbey Island Vineyard and Winery.

Clinton: Lynae’s Island Framery.

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