Topanga Canyon Gallery artists didn't plan it exactly, but the theme for their 8th annual Studio Tour on Saturday and Sunday, June 13-14 definitely could be "New Faces, New Places, New Art." It will be the biggest Tour in TCG history, solidifying its status as the Canyon's premier visual arts event of the year.
Among the 19 member artists and 35 guest artists participating--nearly double the total of just a few years ago--many will be Tour first-timers And a number of the more than 27 studio sites will be part of the Tour for the first time.
Moreover, several Tour veterans will be showing work that is different, in genre, technique or media, from what they have done in the past. A few examples: Linda Bolhuis, some pastels and a new series of paintings on silk inspired by trips to Baja; Rebecca Andrews, miniature whimsical fused glass figurines; Susan Haskell, glass art objects formed by manipulating glass rods over a torch flame.
And every artist involved has worked hard in recent months to produce new art specifically for the Studio Tour. They have also toiled industriously to spruce up their studios and surroundings, providing a fresh look for visitors.
"We're all aware that this is a unique opportunity for the public to share the intimacy of our artists' spaces, to get new insight into where and how, even why, our art is created," says Robyn Feeley, TCG president.
"And we all learn from sharing with our visitors," chimed in Rebecca Catterall, TCG veteran who will be helping in the gallery this year. "A lot of give-and-take goes on that gives our artists a fresh, outsiders' view of their work."
Something else new this year will be live music at the gallery during the Saturday evening reception, provided by keyboardist Court Converse, well-know local musician. Several Tour sites also plan to have live music. Musician Devitt Feeley will be back by popular demand, joining Sophie Pegrum and Robyn Feeley at their 2009 Studio Tour location, Abuelitas Mexican Restaurant.
Studio Tourists will find surprises around every corner: unexpected treats--for the eyes and palates--at various venues. And "getting there" really is at least half the fun. Sights range from grand mountain vistas to cozy studios set in the Canyon's nooks and crannies.
A major benefit of Topanga’s own Studio Tour over city tours of commercial galleries is the pricing. Because the gallery is a co-op group of artists who pay dues and operate it themselves, commission fees are 30 to 50 percent lower than those of typical commercial galleries. “It’s all volunteer labor; every member has a job,” reports Debbie Green, TCG past-president. “Our overhead is low, so we can offer high-quality art at very reasonable prices.”
"Our sponsors have been critical to the Tour's success over the years," reminds veteran TCG member and ceramist Rebecca Catterall. "Steve and Leslie Carlson of Homegrown helped from the start and are current Art Angel sponsors." Art Supporter sponsors include Café Mimosa, Sienna Skin Care, Pritchett Rapf - Chryssa Lightheart, Topanga Theatricum. Art Patron sponsors are: Grolsch Beer, Topanga Lumber, Topanga Properties – Eric Nelson
Self-guided tours begin at Topanga Canyon Gallery, Pine Tree Circle, 120 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd, #9, where attendees pick up the comprehensive, detailed (distances given to 1/10th of a mile) Tour Guide. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, June 13, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, June 14. Reception and Silent Auction will be 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday.
Studio Tour tickets, covering both Saturday and Sunday, are now on sale at the gallery and from TCG members. Pre-sale tickets are $15; price at the door on Tour days are $20.
TIPS FOR TOUR NEWBIES
Fill your tank before setting out. There are no gas stations in the Canyon.
Wear comfortable shoes. Some walking is involved, and Topanga isn't big on sidewalks.
Bring a camera! You will be sorry if you don't, as you travel through some of SoCal's most scenic areas.
Have a water bottle in your car. Many studio sites offer drinks and other treats, but it can get thirsty out there.
