Local Artists Open Studios for Tour

Dave Lambert

Art seems to have universal appeal, drawing many viewers to museums and galleries. However, we seldom have the chance to peek into the working studios of producing artists.

That rare opportunity will be made available Saturday and Sunday, April 17-18, when local artists open their studios to visitors in the second annual Ramona Artists’ Open Studio Tour, sponsored by the Ramona Chamber of Commerce.

Nineteen local artists, some more well-known outside the community than in, will open their Ramona studios to the public for the two-day event. Sixteen studios will be open for visitors to take a self-guided tour.

Studios will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and may be viewed in any order and at your own pace.

Donna Davis

The artists will feature their painting, photography, pottery, sculpture, wearable art and woodwork.

They include the following: woodworker Jim Berger; ceramic artist Dave Lambert; sculptor and painter Shirley "Dani" Leyrer; watercolorist Isabel McCauley; collage Anna Tewes; muralist/sculpture Diane Aden; painter Venus Andrecht; painter Victoria Chick; potter/ weaver Antonia Cosentino; wood designer/furniture-maker John Degirolamo; potter Donna Davis; painter/wearable art/musician Marielouise Ertlé; painter Josepha Hegan; painter Pat Kelly; painter Margaret Keyser; painter Judy Nachazel, painter Carol Ravy; painter Joyce Stark; and painter/ printmaker Helen Wilson.

The tour goal is to broaden the awareness and appreciation of the creative talent that exists in Ramona.

"What I particularly like about the open studio tour is that it comes full circle in benefits, by giving residents and visitors to Ramona exposure to our thriving creative community," said tour co-chairwoman Josepha Hegan, Ramona Chamber of Commerce director.

Victoria Chick

"It’s also an opportunity for local businesses to extend their services to those on the tour driving the two day event."

Other supporters include Albertsons, Don Blackburn, Marketing Worx, Cal Pacific, Karen Clendenen, Faux Designs, Daniel’s Liquor & Deli, Norma Garcia, High Valley Veterinary Hospital, Lenora Winery, Graphic Express, Scott Norton, Nulite, P&M Computers, Packards Plus, Ramona Art Guild, Ramona Pharmacy, Ramona Vintners Cellars, Sears Ramona, KS Stratton Construction and Dan Vengler.

Tickets and a brochure with a map are available at Art About Africa, 621 Main St.; Ramona Chamber of Commerce, Main and 10th streets; and the Olde Ramona Hotel Gallery, 845 Main Street.

Tickets cost $10 per person and also may be purchased at the studios on the days of the tour. Proceeds from the tour will benefit the Ramona Chamber of Commerce.

Josepha Hegan

For more information, call Hegan at (760) 789-9030 or co-chairwoman Judy Nachazel at (760) 789-7131.

Pat Kelly

Isabel McCauley

Venus Andrecht

Marielouise Ertlé