Kathi Wright - Special to the Sun

The winds were calm, the temperatures were balmy, and the skies were blue this past weekend, for the second half of the third annual Open Studio and Gallery Tour. The Kern River Valley Art Association sponsors this self-guided tour, which has grown in popularity to cover two full weekends.

Weekend two covered the areas of Wofford Heights and Kernville. There were many homes and studios open for the enjoyment of the art enthusiast or a supportive artist. Richard Moon Photography of Wofford Heights showcased fabulous photographs of the local fauna and flora and of more exotic locales, such as Africa. He displayed a series of photographs that explained the process of ’Äòmulti-layer’ photography, for those of us who haven’t a clue as to how the process works. This was Moon’s first year in the Tour.

Local artist Carollee Tucker proudly stands with her paintings at Kern Valley Museum.

Rich Pelletreau’s Wildlife Gallery and Studio featured the work of 80 artists, with a broad range of talent. Pelletreau commented that, 'I like the idea of the tour going for two weekends, but I think it would be nice if all studios and homes were open both weekends during the tour, (no matter which side of the Lake they were on.) Some patrons are only able to make it up on one weekend ’Äì not both. They have to pick and choose where they can visit.' Artists were on hand at the Gallery to meet and greet tour-goers.

Jeanette Rogers presented her works of art at the James Market Shopping Center and applauded the fact that, 'There was a great turn out this year!' A number of artists who had been featured the week before were gathered at Rogers’ site, enjoying the day and the event.

Pringle’s Art Gallery featured many artists whose talents included jewelry, leather craft, and other original art. Dan Mancini’s home studio and Fine Art and Photo Gallery were both open for the weekend. The KRV History Museum, Kern River Inn Bed and Breakfast, and the Fine Art Gallery of Debra Wiruth opened their doors for the event as well.

David Laughing Horse Robinson’s steel sculptures and etchings on steel were impressive. Other venues included clock woodworks and custom totebags by Gordon and Bonnie Delano and Lorrine Shreffler; HO gauge railroad by Phil and Gloria Reynolds; oil paintings by Cathy Miller; decoupage, pine needle baskets, and clay sculpture by Elaine Schrader; and a panoply of visual delights at A Stone’s Throw Gallery in Kernville.

If you missed this inspiring event, please plan to attend next year. It is truly an enjoyable way to spend a Spring weekend in the Valley. Contact the Kern River Valley Art Association through Shirley Davis at 379-2844 for more information.