Leaf-peeping…artfully
Find inspiration in foliage, courtesy of the many studio tours happening this fall across Ontario.
Prudence Heward. Autumn, Knowlton, 1941. Oil on plywood panel, Overall: 30.5 x 36 cm. Gift from the J.S. McLean Collection, by Canada Packers Inc., 1990. © Art Gallery of Ontario 89/815
Autumn is coming. You can hear it. It comes trumpeting its fleeting glory, boldly decked in crimson, ochre and tan. In the AGO Collection alone, more than 110 works feature the word autumn in their title, including paintings by Pierre Bonnard, Tom Thomson, Mary Wrinch and Prudence Heward. Offering visitors the chance to meet artists and makers in their studios and homes, while exploring the lesser known highways and byways, there is no better blend of art and nature to be had this fall, than on one of the many regional studio tours happening across the province. We’ve rounded up just a few; you can click on the links below for detailed maps, artist listings, COVID-related safety guidelines, and more.
Apsley Autumn Studio Tour
September 19 and 20
Located north of Peterborough, and just beyond the gates of Kawartha Highlands Provincial Park, the town of Apsley has been hosting studio tours since 1994. This year’s tour features 27 artists, presenting work in 13 locations.
Georgina Studio Tour
September 26 and 27
Explore the southern shores of Lake Simcoe and see the work of more than 20 artists during this free two-day tour of 18 studios.
September 26 and 27
Nestled above the shores of Long Point Provincial Park, Norfolk County stretches from Port Dover to Courtland. During this free two-day tour, 22 artists working in fibre, glass, photography, sculpture and more invite you into their studios.
September 26 and 27, October 3 and 4
Happening over two weekends, the 35th anniversary edition of this free self-guided tour, features 16 artisans at locations across the Kawarthas, from Lindsay to Kinmount.
The Bay Studio Tour
October 3 and 4
Twenty-three artists working in and around Penetanguishene and Tiny Township will take part in this year’s free tour of the artistic side of Georgian Bay.
The Studio Tour Haliburton Highlands
October 3 and 4, and 10 &11
Explore the dense forests of the Haliburton Highlands, located east of Bracebridge, on this 12-stop tour taking place on the first two weekends of October. Discover 15 artists working with several different media.
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