Allegany Artisans Announces New Exhibitors in 2013 Studio Tour

Allegany Artisans announces that the Annual Studio Tour will have the largest number of artists and craftsmen in the 26 year history of the event. Fifty studios in Allegany County in the rural western Southern Tier of New York State will open their studios and workshops to the public on the weekend of October 19 and 20. The tour includes painter's and sculptor's studios, potteries, blacksmiths' shops, jewelers, fiber artists, woodworkers and more. The styles range from very contemporary and avant-garde to very traditional.

Begun in 1988, a group of eight artisans coordinated the promotion of their separate holiday season studio sales. The joint effort proved to be far better for both the artists and their customers. The public found the shopping opportunity much more attractive when they could visit several studios on the same outing. The exhibitors pooled their advertising costs and publicity exposure.

In recent years the event is usually referred to simply as the "Studio Tour". Similar events in other areas have become part of the progress of entrepreneurial art marketing. The Allegany Artisan's event is actually one of the oldest in the country and certainly the oldest outside of a large city or major tourist area.

The community aspect of the artists working together is a powerful motivation for many of the participants. Painter and ceramic artist Hanna Juekoff has exhibited for the Studio Tour for 25 years. She says, "The Allegany Artisans are a group of interesting people, who give support and information to each other." Helping each other learn and succeed has always been part of the Allegany Artisans organization.

Jeweler and metalsmith Stephen Walker has exhibited since the beginning. Originally showing in his home, he eventually bought a building on Main Street in Andover, NY. He says, "Since my studio was a storefront, the Studio Tour brought customers through my door that often came back after the event expecting I would keep regular business hours. Since then my business has grown and I am open six days a week, year round."

The 2013 Studio Tour is spread out over forty one locations in seven towns and villages. The rolling hills of Allegany County are about an hour and a half south of Rochester and Buffalo. Mid-October is a spectacular time to enjoy the vibrant Autumn foliage while traveling between the wide variety of workshops. Many studios offer refreshments and demonstrations.

Maps, descriptions of the work offered and more information can be found at AlleganyArtisans.com. A color brochure listing all fifty studios with illustrations of their work and travel directions can be picked up at any participating studio or can be mailed. To receive a brochure call 1-800- 836-1869 or email AlleganyArtisans(at)gmail(dot)com and type "Studio Tour" in the subject line.