Public invited to go behind the scenes at workspaces of many Benicia artists

The first weekend in May heralds the annual Arts Benicia Open Studios, where artists in the Arsenal and throughout the city open their studios to the public.

More than 60 artists, most located in the Arsenal but several in the downtown area and other parts of town, will open their doors to visitors in this year’s event.

Don’t know where to start? Daunted by the idea of trying to see many artists? Make your first stop Arts Benicia to see artwork by many of the participating artists, and pick up a map showing studio locations around town.

Diane Williams, who owns Studio I An I with her husband Chuck Potter, has had a studio in the Arsenal for 22 years — and she has participated in Open Studios all that time.

“Open studios is a great way to meet our local artists, find out about the wonderful work happening in the Arsenal and to show your support,” Williams said. “We are fortunate to be a part of this vibrant art community, which makes Benicia the special place that it is.”

A new addition this year: Benicia Old Town Theatre Group will have in-costume modeling sessions in the Arts Benicia Classroom for artists to show off their talents.

Another key addition: a shuttle that will run between the Arsenal and downtown. Program director Mary Shaw said she realized last year there was a need to put more effort into including the artists on First Street, who “traditionally get less attendance during Open Studios.” The shuttle “is going to really open up studios for visitors,” said Renee Marie Jordan of First Street’s Gallerie Renee Marie.

Arts Benicia’s Mosaic Project has also made a return. Members of the community of all ages and levels have created small works of art on 6-inch-by-6-inch panels. There are 124 tiles arranged into a mosaic on the wall in the gallery. Raffle tickets are available at $25 each. Each ticket guarantees a tile; the drawing is for which piece the ticket holder will receive.

Shaw said volunteers are still needed. Contact her at Mary@artsbenicia.org.

If You Go
Open Studios will take place May 2 and 3, 10 am. to 5 p.m. For information, a map and a list of participating artists visit http://artsbenicia.org/open-studios-2015. Arts Benicia is located at 991 Tyler St., #114.