Taking place over the course of two October weekends, the Chestertown RiverArts Studio Tour includes more than 50 working studios throughout Kent and Queen Anne’s Counties. Guests will be invited to explore creative studio spaces, watch artists at work, talk with them about their craft and purchase works at studio prices. Participation in the tour is free, and because it is self-guided, visitors can enjoy this art immersion at their own pace.

Ever wonder what an artist’s studio really looks like? Chestertown RiverArts Annual Studio Tour allows the visitor a chance to take a sneak peek inside Kent and Queen Anne’s Counties' creative spaces. This free, self-guided tour on the picturesque Eastern Shore of Maryland takes place over two Fall weekends rain or shine. More than 50 artists, many nationally known, invite visitors in to talk, check out how they work, and provide the opportunity to buy original artwork at studio prices.

The art is as diverse as the artists who create it, with styles ranging from traditional to avant-garde, expressed in a variety of media that include painting, photography, sculpture, metalwork, pottery, fiber, woodcraft, jewelry, furniture, glass, and more. Studios are also varied with several studio galleries, independent studios in two small art complexes, and many at the artist’s homes – some detached from the main house and some inside the home itself. In a few instances, there are artists displaying their work at a venue other than their own studio.

Situated on a scenic peninsula where the Chester and Sassafras Rivers meander into the Chesapeake Bay, Kent County has retained its serene beauty despite the passage of time. Located on the banks of the Chester River, Chestertown is the oldest mid-Atlantic port of entry. It has been designated by the state of Maryland as an Arts and Entertainment District; its mayor, Chris Cerino remarked, “The downtown arts scene has grown by leaps and bounds in the past decade…Chestertown is fast becoming a regional arts destination.” In addition to the charm of Chestertown, out-of-towners often remark on how much they enjoy the tranquility of the countryside, water views, and small, friendly towns.

It is recommended that visitors start their tour at the RiverArts Gallery, 315 High Street, Suite 106 where there will be an exhibit of works by the artists on the tour to help decide on must-see venues. Brochures are available from local Chestertown establishments and at RiverArts.