Local residents, artists and visitors are invited to the Open Studios Kick-Off Party at ARTspace at 240 Fifth St. on Friday, April 8 from 6-8 p.m. to get a sneak peak of this year's tour.  Open Studios is a self-guided tour of artists’ studios throughout San Benito County and takes place on Saturday and Sunday, April 23-24 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 

This year’s tour features 21 local artists and artisans and showcases works in painting, photography, pottery and ceramics, stained-glass, jewelry and more. Open Studios is a great way for locals and out-of-town visitors to meet the artists, view and purchase original works of art, learn more about the processes of art-making and enjoy a scenic tour throughout San Benito County.

The Kick-Off Party is an opportunity for the community to view the artwork, enjoy food and drinks and celebrate this year’s group of talented, dynamic artists. These events are free and open to the public.

A map of the artists’ studios and the artist directory can be downloaded at www.sanbenitoarts.org.  Maps are also available at ARTspace at 240 Fifth St. in downtown Hollister or at the San Benito County Chamber of Commerce. Please call 831-636-2787 or email [email protected] for more information.

Here is a full list of the participating artists: Alia Outrey, Amber Henderson, Andrea McCann, Clay Peer, Eric Tapley, Frank Haseloff, Gayle Sleznick, Georgesse Gomez, Gloria Sipes, Jane Rekedal, Kathleen Sheridan, Kent Child, Laurie Tholen, Leslie Holtaway, Linda Bjornson, Lisa Rivaollon, Louise Roy, Robb Lee, Sally Diggory, SanDee Adams and Susan Shirley.

Open Studios is made possible by the California Arts Council, Community Foundation for San Benito County, Rotary of San Juan Bautista, San Juan Oaks, Aromas Hills Artisans, Sally Street Studios, Jane Rekedal Pottery, Gayle Sleznick and Andrea McCann.