They say that art is in the eye of the beholder. On Saturday and Sunday, July 8th and 9th, there was a myriad of art to behold as the Shoreline Artists held their annual Studio Tour.
With 32 artists at 18 studios, there was literally something for every taste in art. From ecoprints on upcycled fabrics by Maija Zemitis to nature and wildlife photography by Patt Nearingburg, historical drawings & illustrations by Ken Thornburn to the outdoor wood sculptures of Gerald Guenkel, the glass, stone and resin art by Janice Walters to the blacksmith metal art of of Alan Sloas, and of course, art created with a painter’s brush, the range of art was limited only by imagination and talent.
Illustrator Paul Hock can capture the innocence 
of a baby raccoon or the roar of Lake Huron. Hock has illustrated several children’s books and his work can be seen at the Marine Artisans’ Market held in Southampton each Friday throughout the summer.
Karen Stewart has been creating art for many years and is known for her beautiful landscapes along the shore of Lake Huron.
Now living in the countryside, she continues to create watercolours and mixed media works and is often called upon to do commissioned works.
This year, several artists had the opportunity to share spaces. Pottery artist Sue McDonald of Tara, for instance, shared space with artist, Bonnie Hastings at her home in Southampton, with each bringing her unique art perspective and talent.
McDonald creates unique pottery pieces in her studio on Concession 6, a short jaunt from downtown Tara. The Pottery Studio is filled with exquisite pieces of pottery but that are designed for everyday use. She is known for moving from one colour to another, creating an entire series in one and the moving on to another. Her work is shown in galleries throughout Ontario.
Two other artists who shared a space and brought their unique talents to the Studio Tour were Sue Rutledge and Alan Sloas. Each of their works seemed to complement one another with earth-grounded driftwood and metals that require full hands-on techniques.
Sue Rutledge of Southampton creates beauty out of wood that has been washed and smoothed by the waters of Lake Huron and left lying on the shore. With driftwood pieces that rarely, if ever, require any sanding, she creates exquisite trees, frames for mirrors and glass, wreaths and ornamental decor items.
As a blacksmith, Artist Alan Sloan relies on heat that can reach 1800 degrees, and for 20 years, has honed his craft to create exquisite metal art forged from the hot coals.
For more on the Shoreline Artists Tour, CLICK HERE
The artists are now preparing for their next big summer show, Art on the Fence, coming up on August 5th (rain date August 6th). It is a chance for residents and visitors to stroll in the gardens of the historic home that is now Chantry Breezes B&B on High St. in Southampton and take in the creavity of the many talented local artists.
