A new way to explore local artists

Friday, September 16, 2011

It won't be long until community residents are able to explore what Putnam County local artists have to offer. Mental Health America of Putnam County will host the 2011 Artist Studio Tour on Saturday, Sept. 24 from noon-6 p.m.

Several local artists and venues will be uniting in an effort to bring attention to the community art scene. Participants in the tour will be able to explore artists in a new way that is generally not available, by exploring where the artists work, their studios.

The event, which has a bit of a treasure hunt format, will take place all over Putnam County. When buying a ticket, each participant will receive a map, which includes the locations of the all artists' studios that are participating in the event.

"We've been talking about this for a couple years," Executive Director of MHAPC Eileen Johnson said. "I think it'd be a fun outing for the day."

The local artists will be located throughout Putnam County. Participants are free to spend as much time as they choose at any studio and talk to the artists. Not only is the event for a good cause, it also benefits the artists by getting the word out about their work.

"I think it focuses how much art there is in our community that people can take advantage of," Johnson explained. "We do have a lot of talent in Putnam County."

Local artists included will be Marj Peeler, Marla Helton and Stu Fabe, The Low Road Gallery, Lance Myers, Martha Opdahl, Jennifer Herrold and the GC Galleria.

It is the hope of MHAPC to make this an annual event each fall. One hundred percent of the proceeds from the program will benefit MHAPC programs.

"As with any other agency in town, we struggle to keep our doors open," said Johnson.

A reception will take place at the Putnam County Museum immediately following the tour from 4-6 p.m. Wine and hors d'oeuvres will be served.

The cost of the event will be $15 per person or $25 per couple. Tickets can be purchased at the GC Galleria or the Mental Health America of Putnam County offices. For more information, persons may call 653-3310.

Respond to this story

Posting a comment requires free registration: