By Joshua Estabrooks

If you haven’t already heard, the Columbia Valley Arts Council’s fifth annual Tour of the Arts is coming to the valley on August 5. The tour marries two popular activities, sightseeing and artisan markets. In one afternoon, one can satisfy their sense of adventure, as well as receive inspiration by locally produced artwork at five unique and stunning locations in and around Invermere.

There are five sites in total that will host approximately 46 artists, complete with live musical entertainment at each site and a wrap up gala at Copper Point Resort.

This year, the Tour opened up the design of their posters and passports to participating artists, and after receiving submissions from 13 artists, decided on the sculpture “Metal Moon,” created by well-known artist, Scott Bellows.

Scott owns and operates Bellows Forge and Ironcraft, located 4884 Athalmer Road, beside Bavin Glassworks. His work is highly sought after by homebuilders, industrial builders and fine art collectors alike. He uses both new and reclaimed metal, often collaborating with other artists who create in glass, stone and wood.  The results are very impressive! Teaching and demonstrating all lend fire to his passion for creative expression.

Inspiration for Scott’s art piece came from the evening colours found in the mountains surrounding the Columbia Valley, he said. “Shadows of blue, grey and copper give tranquility to night skies and mountain rocks. When far removed from the cacophony of modern living, such scenes remind us of a basic human need for the peaceful and serene gifts found in nature.”

Tour passports, which gain you access to all five tour sites and the Celebrate Arts Reception are on sale now at a variety of locations, so make sure you get yours soon and set aside the date for a day of discovery you will not soon forget.

For more information, to purchase a passport or to volunteer to help out at the event, please call 250-342-4423 or e-mail [email protected].

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