Chestertown RiverArts Annual Studio Tour allows the visitor a chance to take a sneak peak 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. This year 44 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, metal work, 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. 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 at RiverArts. Regular gallery hours are Wednesday-Friday 11-4, Saturday 10-4 and Sunday 11-3 During the Studio Tour, Gallery hours are Saturday and Sunday, 10-5.

Combine your Studio Tour with Chestertown’s Schooner Sultana Downrigging weekend October 29-30. Sultana is joined by many historic tall ships and Chesapeake Buyboats. Many interesting art studios are within easy walking distance of the ships. All this makes for a fun family outing.

Only 90 miles from Baltimore, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia, the tour can be a great day trip. However, with more than 40 studios on the tour, you may wish to make a weekend of it. Information on lodging, restaurants, and other attractions is available at www.kentcounty.com or contact our Tourism Development Office at 410-778-0416.

We hope that you will join us!