Peek inside creative spaces with the Moab Artists Studio Tour

From backyard sheds to the corners of the kitchens, the Moab Artists Studio Tour takes visitors into the private creative spaces of local artists.

Now in its 16th year, the tour features 15 artists working out of 13 area studios. Featured artists work in a variety of media including acrylic, oil, watercolor and pastel paintings, as well as ceramics, photography, woodcarving, sculpture and jewelry.

This Saturday, Sept. 7, is the last day this year to experience the creative process up close with Moab artists like painters Sandy Snead and Robin Straub, and sculptor Nick Eason. The tour is self-directed, with visitors using mapped locations to wander freely from studio to studio. The studios will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The tour has grown each year, this year adding five new artists including Tim “MIK” McAllister and oil painter Julia Buckwalter. One piece of McAllister’s work that’s familiar to many: the city of Moab commissioned the artist to create the new metal sign at Lion’s Park last year.

Deborah McDermott works in a variety of relief printmaking techniques, in addition to painting with acrylics and drawing with oil pastels. This year was her first participating in the studio tour.

“People can come into my studio where I work, and I’ve also set my home up like a gallery,” McDermott said, “for an introvert, it’s been a little bit much but I think it’s good for me to be out there.”

Young artists are especially invited to join the studio tour. The established artists opening their doors can offer a special opportunity for inspiration and guidance.

It’s not just the beauty of seeing the paints or charcoal first-hand, but the studio tour allows visitors to see the artist themselves in their natural habitat. Unlike a sterile museum or gallery, in these spaces you can ask questions directly to the artist about technique, intent, and style.

“It’s been a good experience. I’ve met some wonderful people and had some great conversations,” said McDermott, “it is great for people to see artwork close up.”

For a map to all the studios and a complete listing of participating artists at www.moabstudiotour.com.

Moab Artists Studio Tour

Saturday, September 7 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Various artist studios across Moab and Castle Valley

For more information, visit www.moabstudiotour.com

Author: Maggie McGuire

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