June 11 and 12 will be the 20th anniversary of a unique art event that could only happen in Topanga—and only a community like Topanga would come together to make it happen after a two-year forced hiatus. The two-year pause has resulted in some real improvements for Tour visitors, as well the collection of many new artists and new locations.
The Studio Tour, put on by the Topanga Canyon Gallery, is a two-day self-guided driving tour through the canyon to artists’ home studios where groups of artists show and sell their work. The nature of the Tour allows artists to show multiple bodies of work, more than would be seen at a typical art show or in a gallery. It also provides the opportunity for art lovers to interact directly with artists with plenty of time to enjoy and discuss the work because the home studios are open for two full days. Tickets for the Tour cover both days and a Saturday night reception.
The resurrection of the Tour was not a sure thing—planning was started 3 months late due to insecurities around Covid. Missing two annual Tours had an impact on the Gallery’s finances and ability to fund the 2022 Tour, and a number of the artists who participated in prior years were no longer available. But thanks to Topanga’s committed artist community, the support of community institutions and businesses, and some diligent and fast work by the artists of the Gallery – the Tour is back!
There are some real differences in this first post-pandemic Tour: new locations and artists, more places and times to pick up maps or buy tickets, more convenient geography, and an online option for bidding on work in the silent auction held during each Studio Tour.
Maps will be available in advance on Friday at the Gallery and will also be available at a location off Viewridge for the entire weekend. Last minute tickets will be available at both places as well. As in prior years, tickets are discounted when purchased any time before June 11; the ticket receipt must be presented to pick up a map June 10 – 12.
A silent auction for over fifty 8” by 8” original works of art has already begun, both online and at the gallery. Art lovers can see the work in person, bid on their favorites, and keep track of bids online until the auction ends during the Tour reception, Saturday, June 11th from 5:30-8:30. If you absolutely love a piece, there is a ‘Buy It Now’ price.
It has taken the commitment of the gallery, the artists, the businesses, and the institutions of the canyon to make this tour happen. It will no doubt be a great weekend; don’t miss it!
Tickets: topangacanyongallery.com or Topanga Canyon Gallery, 137 S Topanga Canyon Blvd. Gallery open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday 1pm to 7pm. Studio Tour: June 11 10am-5pm; June 12 11am- 5pm.
