Stretching from the southern to northern corners of the Columbia Basin, craftsmen and craftswomen will be opening up their studios and workspaces to showcase art projects in honour of the Columbia Basin Culture Tour.

The 8th Annual Columbia Basin Culture Tour, which is a project of the Columbia Kootenay Cultural Alliance and the Columbia Basin Trust, offers the opportunity to take a free, self-guided tour of artisan galleries and exhibitions in Basin communities between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m on August 13th and 14th. The goal is to open art studios that are typically closed to the public so that spectators can look behind the scenes.

Sandpiper Studio artist Gordon Webster has been participating in the Columbia Basin Culture Tour for several years and believes it’s a great way to bring art aficionados into the Columbia Valley. He added it’s a great opportunity to give his artwork exposure.

“It gives us exposure all over the Kootenays,” said Webster. “They advertise in Nelson and Kaslo, so you end up getting a larger audience. It brings people to our shop.”

While participating has helped draw a crowd to the Sandpiper Studio, the opportunity to connect with people from other areas also appeals to him.

“We’ve done it four or five times,” said Webster. “It does attract more people.”

The call for participating artisans to register as a venue open for viewing during the tour has gone out — registrations from applicants will be accepted until Wednesday, April 13th.

Once the tour schedule of participating artists has been finalized, there will be full-colour tour directories provided to the public for no charge to help act as a guide to each area.

To register ($40 for an early registration received before March 31st or $50 registration between April 1st and 13th), visit www.cbculturetour.com or call 250-505-5505. To contact the Columbia Basin Culture Tour toll free, 1-877-505-7355.