It goes without saying that guests who stay with us at the Washington House Inn in October are hoping to encounter the vibrant fall colors for which Wisconsin is renowned. And what better way for people to experience autumn at its finest than to take part in the annual Covered Bridge Art Studio Tour on Oct. 9, 10 and 11! During this unique three-day event, some of Wisconsin’s finest artists open up their home studios and grant visitors rare access to their personal space. As visitors travel from studio to gallery, they’re encouraged to ask questions, watch demonstrations, and learn about many different creative processes. It’s fun, it’s free … and sometimes they even come away with new treasures clutched under their arms.
How difficult will it be to locate participating studios? Not a problem. Maps showing where the artists will be are currently available at the Cedarburg Cultural Center (W62 N546 Washington Ave.) or at the Visitor Center in the General Store Museum (corner of Spring and Washington). The maps are also available here at the Inn. Plot your route carefully as the studios are dotted throughout southern Ozaukee County. Although many of them are right here in Cedarburg, you’ll get a warm welcome from artists in Newburg, Saukville, Port Washington, Grafton, Thiensville and Mequon, too.
To cap off a fine weekend, plan to attend the Saturday Night Shindig from 6-9pm at the Cedarburg Cultural Center. Described as a night of fun, food, and live music by VIVO, there’s also an exciting Silent Auction with the star prize of a 3-night Funjet Vacations trip for 2 to Puerto Vallarta, airfare included. And don’t forget to check out the numerous donations from artists which will be available to bid upon. Sponsored by the 265 members of the Cedarburg Artists Guild, you’ll understand why here “art is a tradition.”