2008 Artists Open Studios tours begin on Thanksgiving Weekend

Print by Trudy Mitchell, one of the artists in the 2008 tour.

There are 88 artists opening the doors to their studios this year.

Besides turkey and all the fixins', one of the highlights of Thanksgiving here in the Quiet Corner is the annual Artists Open Studio tours.

The event is held this year on two weekends, Nov. 29 and 30 and Dec. 6 and 7, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This year there are no less than 88 artists participating with works that include painting in many styles and media, pottery, sculpture, unique jewelry, woodcarving, textiles, photography, graphic arts and even hand-forged knives.

In Mansfield, alone, 15 artists will open their doors to visitors - many will offer demonstrations and sell their works.

For those who would like to explore farther afield, there are participating studios in Ashford, Pomfret, Lebanon, Chaplin, Willington, Vernon, Willimantic, Columbia, Woodstock, Coventry, Hampton, Canterbury, Eastford and Thompson, as well.

The self-guided tour is free. For a complete list of artists and a map of the studios' locations, click here.

Posted Nov. 16, 2008

Hand-forged knives by Bill Hoffman of Mansfield.

A sample of textile art by Maggie D. Kendis.

Pottery by Mansfield artist Emine Cichowski.

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