30 Artists to Participate in the 5th Annual Southern Hands Artist Studio Tour; Art Lovers from Across the State Plan for the Annual Tour

Atlanta, GA, September 01, 2017 --(PR.com)-- Thirty artists in studios across Fayette and Coweta counties will be showcasing their talents and techniques, answering questions and selling their art during the 5th Annual Southern Hands Artist Studio Tour (SHAST). Visitors will get a rare glimpse behind-the-scenes, see demonstrations and, at many of the artist’s studios, be able to try their hand at creating a work of art.

In past years visitors from Marietta, Tallapoosa, LaGrange, Carrollton, Vinings, Woodstock and many other locations around Georgia have traveled to South Metro Atlanta to see the artist’s studios, learn about the process and buy unique art from the artists they have met.

The variety of art covers the spectrum to include painting, fused glass, weaving, fiber art, ceramics, jewelry, woodturning, blacksmithing, photography and mixed media. Information on each artist is available on the SHAST website.

SHAST was started in Fayette County by local ceramic artist Andrea Boswell to educate those curious about the creative process and to inspire future artists. Each year it has grown and improved thanks to her creative leadership. This year another local ceramic artist, Janet McGregor Dunn, was handed the reins. SHAST is run entirely by volunteer artists with all of those on the tour working to ensure the best possible experience for visitors.

A number of new and exciting changes have been made this year:

· Attendance is free.
· Fine Lines Art and Framing and The Boyd Gallery will be giving away gift-certificates valued at $25 or $50 each on the SHAST Facebook page, artstudiotourga. Those wishing to participate and win should simply “like” the SHAST Facebook page and watch for information. The certificates can be used at any SHAST artist’s studio during the tour through the end of November.
· SHAST expanded this year to include artists from Coweta County.
· Artwork by SHAST artists is now available on Facebook for purchase year-round at facebook.com/groups/shastart/
· The public can keep up with all things SHAST by signing up for SHAST Blasts on SHASTour.com

Newnan Art Depot will be hosting an artist reception on Saturday, November 4th, from 5 – 8 p.m. Additionally, SHAST artist’s work will be available for sale throughout the month of October at the Art Depot. Visit the Art Depot 30 E Washington St, Newnan, GA 30263 or online, NewnanArtDepot.com.

SHAST is held the 2nd weekend in November each year. Visitors are provided with addresses for all the artists or may print a map available on the SHAST website. Guests may start at any studio. Along with art, information and fun, guests can enjoy a variety of refreshments at each studio.

Numerous local businesses support SHAST through generous donations. Brent Scarbrough Company, Piedmont Insurance, The Town of Turin, Amy Byers Agency, Joan Velsmid and Sherry Stone Blackmon REALTORS, Crain Oil, Christopher Brothers Land Surveying, Fine Lines Art and Framing, The Boyd Gallery, The Newnan Art Depot, and Corner Arts Gallery are just a few who companies supporting the arts in Fayette and Coweta.

To learn more about SHAST visit the new, updated website, www.SHASTour.com, follow along on Twitter, @shastga, Facebook, artstudiotourga, or sign up for SHAST Blasts on the website.

High resolution photos are available for use at http://www.shastour.com/press-release-photos.html

Janet McGregor Dunn, 2017 Chair
info@shastour.com, 404-290-3638