Arrow-right Camera
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

One location, many arists

This year’s Spokane Valley Art Studio Tour will be at one address

Jennifer LaRue

Valley artists are readying their wares for the fourth annual Spokane Valley Studio Art Tour next weekend.

The difference this year is instead of driving to six different locations to view the artistic expressions of the local talent and perhaps even getting lost along the way, tourgoers need only a single address at South Evergreen Road at 32nd Avenue.

“We’re Goin’ Green” is this year’s motto to save on gas as well as time.

The expansive property will be transformed into a small white-tent city, where more than 20 artists will be sharing their creations.

“I am honored to be among the fine artists whose work will be on exhibit in the Spokane Valley Studio Art Tour,” Dianne Lemley said. “It is exciting to be part of a supportive group of people dedicated to bringing fine art to the community in a beautiful outdoor setting that is fun and festive. I enjoy talking with those who come to view and discuss the art work, and hopefully purchase a piece.”

Lemley will be showing her watercolors, some that intertwine faces and objects of nature. Nathan and Mary Eberle will be showing their flowers and bonsai trees made from different types of paper, beads, stones and coloring media. Denise Bowles will be showing her mixed-media pieces. “In my work I use texture, color and images real or imagined in my attempt to portray the many sensations of man: power, weakness, chaos and peace, the push and pull of life,” she said.

Other mixed-media artists include Liz Bishop who will be showing her mugs, platters, chairs and spirit vessels. Her materials are fused glass, raku, copper and metal. Sami Perry will be displaying her freestanding and wall pieces from a series called “The Farmer’s Daughter” in clay, glass and found objects. Nan Drye’s exhibit will include fiber.

Lezlie Finet, who owns the property at South Evergreen, will be opening her detached, self-contained studio that sits on top of a hill where her clay art will be made available.

There will be paintings in a host of mediums and styles, jewelry, masks, painted glass, sculptures, photography and pottery. There will be musical entertainment, and food and beverages available for purchase.

The tour will kick off with a reception Friday night from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Mirabeau Park Hotel, 1101 N. Sullivan Road, where participating artists will donate pieces for a silent auction and have other samples of their work to preview.

Knipprath Winery will supply wine for tasting, and cake and hors d’oeurves will be served to the sounds of live music. Tickets are $12 at the door and $10 in advance with proceeds going into an arts fund which will help pay for upcoming events.

“Do I have any expectations for this event? Yes, to meet other art lovers,” said watercolor artist Patricia Elser.