The sounds of flute and classical guitar, the experience of spending some time with an original artist and the opportunity for a lunch on Wild Boar or Arctic Char and a locally grown organic salad - what a splendid way to spend a peaceful day during the Labour Day Weekend. Carmen & Cam Allen open their home and gardens with a total of 12 unique artists present. The Allens’ home is a shining example of an eco-friendly home, right down to the recycled rainwater solar system that keeps the gardens in pristine condition.

     This year they welcome five new artists and seven artists are returning from last year. The returning artists are all introducing new items within their medium. We are planning a “mystery” Guest, you will have to come and see whom!

     Carmen’s studio anchors the tour; this is her sixth show, as she was previously part of the Inroads Studio Tour. Her stained glass celebrates her love of nature and her whimsical copper garden pieces will bring a smile to all. Dawn Burnham will be showing her unique porcelain/stoneware pottery; Mark Burnham brings original wooden utensils, walking sticks and other unique wooden items. Doug MacDonald returns with his spectacular cast stone sculptures, you will enjoy Gary Barr’s landscape paintings, John MacDonald brings excellent metal garden art. New this year are: Loretta Moore, who creates hooked rugs and wall hangings; Kathleen Nootenboom, a chocolatier extraordinaire; Bill Neddow with an international reputation for his woodturnings and bowls; Marilynne Gowan who brings a spectacular multi-media collage of garden art; and Grant Frazer, a forger of original knives and swords. Cam offers his architectural renditions of bird feeders and houses, all made of environmentally responsible white cedar. Paul & Michelle from the Fall River Pub & Grill will be serving lunches, and we welcome the Duo “Caccia” who will be entertaining you.

     Please join us for a casual walk thru the gardens, relax at one of our ponds, take time for lunch, turn off the cell phone and let us entertain you. Don’t forget to fill in your ballot for our draws, each artist has donated a piece -12 draws in all. The tour is open Saturday & Sunday 10-5pm and Monday 10-4pm. Ample parking provided across the road and washroom facilities are available.

     Sundance Studio is located just north of Highway #7 at the Maberly-County Road 36 turn. Go north to Zealand Road and continue to 1047 Zealand Road. It is about a 20-minute drive from Perth. Look for the Black Signs with the kaleidoscope of colour directing you to our studio. For further information call 613-268-2171 or go to www.sundancestudio.ca