Artists Along the Bitterroot: Studios & Homes Tour Weekend Ahead
Western Montanans are well aware of Missoula’s rich art and creative culture. In the ‘zoo there are galleries and talented artists galore, but did you know that you can make a short drive south on Highway 93 to uncover the talent-laden trove of artisans and a convergence of artistic media along the Bitterroot Valley?
Artists Along the Bitterroot (AAB) is a non-profit affiliation of artists who share their studios, expertise and art annually through Studio Tours and community art programs. AAB traditionally curates a semi-annual Open House tour in June and November featuring artists in their personal workshops. This year however, the June tour was cancelled. Not wanting to miss out on hosting during the warmer weather allowing outdoor displays, the weekend of September 18-20 was slated for the only tour date for 2020.
We chatted with Barbara Liss, Director of Artists Along the Bitterroot, and she filled us in on what to expect for this years art tour.
Liss encouraged everyone to bring the entire family including the kids. Not only will many of the artists be showcasing their skills with finished works, many will be actively creating their next showpiece. Other artists will have hands-on workshops. Perhaps someone in your family will be inspired to fire their own imagination to develop their own potential artistic talent.
Visitors are able to learn the background behind their chosen works to take home and relay the story about making personal connections with the artists in their own studios.
The tour starts in Lolo with Jim Thomasen’s studio and continues with stops along the Bitterroot Valley south to Hamilton. This year’s tour includes 17 artists, featuring five new artists in the lineup.
Here is a link to the interactive tour map: https://artistsalongthebitterroot.com/tour-map/
Partnering with Bitterroot Building Industry Association: Tour of Homes
Also, new this year, AAB coordinated with the Bitterroot Building Industry Association for the Bitterroot Tour of Homes. This tour will feature five custom-built homes in the Bitterroot Valley exhibiting original artwork from the members of the AAB. The Tour of Homes runs concurrently with the AAB tour; tickets and information specifically on the Homes Tour are at: https://bitterrootbia.com/2020-tour-of-homes
So, mark your calendars, fill up the car, load up the family and head up the Bitterroot for a truly unique Montana experience. Who knows, maybe you’ll find your next favorite artistic conversation starter!
Follow the Signs
COVID19 Precautions
Per the current guidelines issued by the governor we ask that you were a mask while visiting each studio and home. We leave the compliance with this guideline up to each individual to comply with as they see fit and will not be enforcing mask wearing. We ask that you be respectful of people whether they choose to wear a mask or not. AND IF YOU ARE FEELING ILL PLEASE DO NOT ENTER ANY OF THE TOUR HOMES!