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WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – The last weekend of the Whatcom Artist Studio Tour (WAST) is quickly approaching.
In 2024, the tour is celebrating nearly 30 years since it was founded in 1995. It started with a group of merely ten artists and has grown to feature approximately 45 different studios across Whatcom County.
“The way I think about art is it’s really an expression of the kind of ethos of the entire community. We’re able to do this work because we have the support of the community,” said Chris Moench, Chair of Whatcom Artist Studio Tour Organization. “People respond to the [art] that we’re producing emotionally, by opening their pocketbook, gifting it to friends and family or incorporating it into their lives—where hopefully it inspires them to express themselves.”
WAST gives visitors insight into the creative process, work-environment and lifestyle of artists in Whatcom County. Each studio highlights a primary artist and will potentially feature additional artists. Those on tour will be able to purchase work from local artists and see pieces created in real time.
Some studios featured on the tour this year will also have hands-on-opportunities available to visitors. Featured mediums will include metal sculpting, ceramics, book binding, glass blowing, photography, painting and more.
A new addition this year is several communal writing areas for people to record what the tour and community art means to them.
“Everybody brings their own experiences and perspective. People—some for 30 years now—have been coming on the tour and it means something a little different to each person,” Moench said.
Moench went on to say that a fun aspect of the tour is exploring the different byways and nooks of Whatcom County. Studios may be tucked away in an old downtown building or hidden amongst the trees on the outskirts of a forest. Some artists need infrastructure or a kiln, while others use smaller tools and can do their work almost anywhere.
WAST is a free experience and does not require people to sign up or make a reservation prior to visiting artist studios. Furthermore, individuals of all ages and backgrounds are welcome on the tour.
The last tour will be held the weekend of Oct. 12 to 13 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. In order to make the most of your time and visit specific studios of interest, it is advised to check out WAST’s tour map before touring.