History of the Chatham Artists Guild & the Studio Tour

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and the rights to reproduce those images, text and graphics,
are the property of the artists and the Chatham Artists Guild and are protected by copyright law. All rights reserved.
Copyright © 2008

The Chatham County Open Studio Tour was founded in 1992 under the direction of Cathy Holt, with the goal of promoting artists living in the county. The Studio Tour was one of the many programs of the Chatham County Arts Council (CCAC, also known as ChathamArts). Guild wood artist Roger Dinger makes a cut Although the Tour was a program of CCAC, it was always funded by the artists through subscriptions and sponsors. Over the past fifteen years, the Tour has become more independent by forming its own Steering Committee and considering the course it would take. During this time, several artists were asked to work with other non-profits, either by contributing artwork or by helping out various venues. They also donated their time by giving free lessons to Senior Centers, school children, etc. Guild mandala artist Bruce Saunders enhances a design	A few years ago the artists decided to form their own Guild so that could continue their works with other foundations and non-profits, as well as seek grants to help sustain the Guild. The Guild was awarded its 501(c)3 status in 2007. Guild metal artist Lou Horton twists a form
	The Chatham Studio Tour is one of the oldest in North Carolina, a prototype for other area studio tours, and a highly respected art venue. Since its inception, participation in the Studio Tour has grown from 32 artists to nearly 60 in recent years. Guild jeweler Chrissie Jahnes hammers a design in silver
In addition to the attributes of the actual tour, many visitors are attracted to the Studio Tour by the scenic beauty that inspires many of its local artists. Chatham Moonlight by Guild painter Sally Sutton Rural Chatham County is a delight to the senses, adorned by luminous lakes and rivers that meander through stands of Piedmont pine and rolling farmland. The county is easy to traverse, near urban areas, and history-filled. Roberson Creek by Guild photographer Mark Bashista	An exciting part of the the Tour is the opening reception which is attended by many artists and visitors. This exhibit also features the art of Chatham County school students.
Guild artists donate items for a raffle during the reception.	Guild glass artist Gretchen Niver is also a chef and provides delicious food for the reception.
An idyllic farm scene by Guild painter D L Taylor	In 2008, a record number of visitors crisscrossed Chatham County for the Studio Tour, and large crowds are anticipated again for this year's 16th Annual Tour. Visitors regularly comment on their excitement seeing works of art in the settings in which they are made while developing relationships with the artists whose work they admire and collect.
The beauty of spring captured by Guild painter Nathalie Worthington