Mother's Day weekend is host to two great events showcasing local art: the North Auburn Art Studios Tour and the Loomis Art Loop Open Studios Tour, both free and running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on May 12 and 13. The North Auburn Art Studios Tour features artists in their private environments demonstrating and selling their art, ultimately helping to “educate the public to become aware of our rich visual arts community and help them learn to appreciate processes," explains Janet Nicholson, a member of North Auburn Artists. The self-guided tour includes mediums ranging from blown glass and wood sculptures to ceramics and watercolors. Studios are within a few miles of each other, and a map can be viewed online. The Loomis Art Loop Open Studios Tour also has a map online for easy planning and features 17 artists—showcasing a range of art, including paintings, fiber arts, three-dimensional works, and jewelry—at four locations. The featured artists have a range of professional experience, some earning local and even national honors. Both tours are proud to highlight the hard work of their organization’s creative artists, and Mother's Day weekend is a great time to gather family and friends to explore the talent in our own backyard. 

By Emily Peter