Tri-Valley artists to showcase diverse creativity during annual open studio tour

This weekend creativity takes center stage as artists from across the region invite the public for a behind-the-scenes look at their work for the 2024 Tri-Valley Artist Studio Tour. 

Scheduled for Saturday and Sunday (May 4-5), over 100 artists are slated to participate. More than a dozen locations will be open across the Tri-Valley from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness the creative process firsthand.

The TVAST initiative, a project of the Alliance for Visual Artists, aims to foster connections between artists and the community while showcasing artistic expression in the Tri-Valley area. 

“The primary goal of the TVAST is to provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work and engage with the community,” said Linda Ryan, 2024 TVAST director. “We aim to promote the arts and creativity in the Tri-Valley area and foster connections between artists and art enthusiasts.” 

The artwork on display will span a wide range of mediums, including painting, ceramics, glasswork, mixed media, photography and more. 

Ryan and other TVAST organizers hope the event helps to shine a light on local talent and also strengthen a sense of community within the Tri-Valley, she said. 

“(The tours) offer an opportunity for the public to explore the diverse talents and artistic expressions within our community. By opening up studios to visitors, we create a unique experience where people can engage directly with artists, gain insight into their processes and maybe even purchase artwork directly from the creators themselves,” Ryan added.  

Visitors will be able to watch live art demonstrations and hear insights from artists on their work, inspiration and techniques. 

“From paintings and sculptures to ceramics, there’s something for everyone to appreciate,” Ryan told the Weekly. “Visitors will have the opportunity to interact with the artists and then ask questions.” 

Among the participating locations, Pleasanton’s Firehouse Arts Center will be hosting nine artists. 

Before the main event kicks off officially, art enthusiasts can get a sneak peek by visiting nine of the locations on Friday (May 3) between 5-8 p.m. This exclusive preview offers a chance for intimate conversations with the artists in a more relaxed setting.

During the preview, Emelie Rogers will showcase her glass artwork shaped using a kiln. Miles Santos will capture the essence of iconic Bay Area cityscapes with detailed brushwork, while Neha Singh draws inspiration from her global travels to create landscape art. 

Other highlights include Alka Vaidya’s watercolor and acrylic paintings, Adriane Dedic’s textile art, the nature-inspired works of Malavika Oak, Alana Shoars and Deepti Saraswat.

“I hope the event provides valuable exposure, networking opportunities, and perhaps even some sales for artists. More importantly, I hope it reaffirms their importance in our community and encourages them to continue pursuing their artistic endeavors with passion and purpose,” Ryan said of the tour. 

The Alliance for Visual Artists has shared a self-guided cycling map that connects many of the main locations to visit. Through these routes, guests will be able to visit with artists while traveling on bike. 

Each location will be free to visit. More information about the alliance and its TVAST can be found at www.allianceforthevisualarts.org, along with a full schedule of artist demonstrations and activities