Garden tours are a popular way to spend a weekend day in the summer. This year alone, I’ve been on three, each time coming away with inspiration and respect for other people’s talents and accomplishments. Recently I have noticed that art studio tours are becoming as popular as the ubiquitous garden tour. Makes perfect sense–an intimate way to view an artist’s craft while also getting a snap shot into their lives gives the viewer a deeper connection to the work. Just like the garden tours, one comes away fired up to create, with appreciation for how each person is unique and sees things independently. Then, there’s the factor that we’re all curious, even nosy, you could say. We want to see how other people live and relish the opportunity to enter the garden gate or peak into the studio loft.
This Saturday and Sunday, September 22 & 23, folks in Kitsap have a fun opportunity to look at the garden AND the art studio of local sculptor, James Kelsey. Active in the community, many know James as the leader of the film group Reel Friends or recognize his work displayed all over the county, among other locations, at the Norm Dicks Government Building in downtown Bremerton. James is also an avid and talented gardener.
James says of this weekend: “You can bill it as a Art Sale or Fundraiser or OpenGarden or Yard Sale… it’s all of those.” The drive to hold this event is purely financial, sadly, as James is in danger of losing his home and studio and is holding this event to raise money to be able to continue to live here an create his art. He has special pieces he has created just to sell at this event, as well as larger existing artworks in his studio for sale. Friends will be bringing donated items to sell to help him generate funds. As you can imagine, this is indeed an eclectic event–something for everyone, as they say–art, garden, yard sale and a way to lend a helping hand to a community member who has always supported local businesses and especially the arts in Kitsap. Visit www.jameskelseystudios.com to see all the stunning works James has created over his career and some of what will be offered for sale this weekend.
James Kelsey
4761 Cottonwood Drive SE
Port Orchard on the corner of Sedgewick and Cottonwood.
360-871-1499
Saturday Sept 22, 8-6
SundaySept 23, 8-2