A leisurely drive winding through the back roads of Vilas, Oneida, Iron, Langlade and Lincoln counties is a pleasure enjoyed by visitors and residents alike. Behind the obvious scenic panoramas and lush greens is a vibrant and dynamic art life that is often hidden. On July 26, 27 and 28, more than 30 of northern Wisconsin’s finest artists will open the doors of their private studios from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. and welcome visitors to their personal creative spaces.

Art lovers will not only discover painters, potters, photographers, furniture makers, book binders, wood carvers, jewelers, glass and fiber artists, they will see the process of creation as artists demonstrate their skills. Lively discussions are sure to ensue. Purchases may be made directly from the artists.

This is the 14th year the Northwoods Art Tour artists have issued their special invitation to the public. Joining the tour for the first time are Florian Bieschke, Atelier Bookbindery, Arbor Vitae; Linda Polarski, Polarski Cedar Products, Three Lakes, carved furniture; David Kapszukiewicz, Kaps Fine Art, Tomahawk, oil painting; Jack and Chris Stayer, Sand Lake Trading Co., Lac du Flambeau, stained and fused glass; and the area’s newest gallery, Northern Memories Fine Art and Gifts, downtown St. Germain.

New members are eager to share their artwork and knowledge with visitors.
“I look forward to using the tour as an opportunity for public education regarding bookbinding and design binding as well as restoration techniques,” Bieschke said.

The bindery also offers workshops in the art form.

Jack Stayer also enjoys explaining his art form.

“We look forward to helping tour guests understand the complexities and intricacies of our art form,” Stayer said. “Using stained and fused art glass as a medium, my art work is further enhanced by combining a number of unique fusing, copper foil and soldering methods.”

Linda Polarski is looking forward to sharing the history of period furniture and techniques for building it.

“I enjoy painting from nature, especially where nature and mankind’s paths have crossed,” Kapszukiewicz said. “I also enjoy teaching everything I know so others may learn to express themselves through fine art.”

A map and detailed information about each artist and location is available for download at northwoodsarttour.com. Chambers of commerce and businesses throughout the tour area also distribute colorful guide brochures.

For more information, call Ann Waisbrot at (715) 479-1097 or email awaisbrot@frontier.com. Contact information for individual artists and galleries may be found at northwoodsarttour.com.