The Grand Marais Art Colony will host its second annual Tour d’ Art fundraiser.  They have created a rare opportunity to view the homes, studios and art collections of some of the North Shore’s most prestigious artists, all of whom played a role in developing the first art colony in the state of Minnesota.

The tour will provide participants with an exclusive opportunity to visit five unique homes in one afternoon.  Home owners will be present to give context to the history, collections and experience of living the artist life on the North Shore.  On display will be never seen before pieces of artwork, each with its own fascinating story such as the stormy watercolor by Howard Sivertson, the first art purchase of his work by his daughter Liz Sivertson, Paul Granlund sculptures that were gifts or trades with the home owners, a piece of Egyptian hieroglyph, a house with a turret, the only fresco on the North Shore, and many more treasures.

The tour culminates in a private exhibit and reception at the Art Colony. Participants will have the first opportunity to view and buy work from The Legacy Exhibit featuring the home tour artists: Birney Quick, Byron Bradley, Hazel Belvo, Marcia Cushmore, Sharon & Steve Frykman, Liz Sivertson, and select students with whom these legacy artists have influenced.  The exhibit will be open to the public October 5 – 26, 2014.

Tour participants will experience the creative life of artists on the North Shore.  Stories will be told about the journey from the post-war era that brought energy and vitalization through the arts to the remote logging hamlet of Grand Marais to today, creating a lasting legacy of the arts in a pristine setting.

These homes and studios are not open to the public so this is a rare opportunity to see the art and properties of some of the North Shore’s most well known artists.  Tickets are limited for this exclusive experience and can be purchased in advance for $125.

The Grand Marais Art Colony is the first art colony in Minnesota, founded in 1947.  It is a nonprofit art center that exists as a sanctuary for creative making and inspiration.  Offering over 100 classes year-round and studio space for artists in 2D, ceramics, glass and printmaking.

For more information, contact the Grand Marais Art Colony at (218) 387-2737 or events@grandmaraisartcolony.org or visit their website at www.grandmaraisartcolony.org.

Photo Caption: Photo by Bryan Hansel. A Paul Granlund sculpture depicting Birney Quick painting in front of a painting by Birney Quick highlights two extraordinary artists you will see showcased throughout the tour.
Contact Information: events@grandmaraisartcolony.org
For further information: www.grandmaraisartcolony.org
Event webpage: http://grandmaraisartcolony.org/event.cfm?eid=33
For general lodging information: http://www.visitcookcounty.com