SOUTHERN VERMONT– Each spring the work of Vermont artists and craftspeople can be seen firsthand during Vermont’s annual Open Studio Weekend.

Open Studio Weekend is a statewide celebration of the visual arts and the creative process in which Vermont artists and craftspeople invite the public to visit them in their studios during Memorial Day weekend on May 29 and 30. More than 236 sites will be open during this event, with more than 300 artists and artisans participating. Open Studio Weekend represents a unique opportunity to meet a wide variety of artists and craftspeople in their studios, some of which are only open to the public during this weekend.

“Vermont is becoming increasingly well known for its talented community of local artists and craftspeople,” said Governor Jim Douglas.

Open Studio Weekend features the work of glass blowers, jewelers, printmakers, potters, furniture makers, weavers, ironworkers, painters, sculptors, quilt makers ,and wood carvers. Many galleries will host gallery talks and feature special exhibits in conjunction with this event.

Visitors return to Open Studio year after year because the tour is different each time. The Vermont Crafts Council publishes a free map booklet with directions to participating sites. The Vermont Studio Tour Guide is available at Vermont Information Centers, from individual studios and galleries, and by request.

The Vermont Crafts Council created Open Studio Weekend 18 years ago to increase the visibility of artists and craftspeople in Vermont and to foster an appreciation for the creative process and the role that artists and craftspeople play in the vitality of Vermont’s communities. Open Studio Weekend is one of the signature events of Vermont Culture & Heritage Days from May 29 to July 5.

Additional information about Open Studio Weekend can be found online at www.vermontcrafts.com or by calling the Vermont Crafts Council at (802) 223-3380. For more information about Culture & Heritage Days, visit www.VermontVacation.com.