LAGUNA BEACH, CA–(Marketwire – November 19, 2010) – On Saturday, December 4, 2010, the Laguna Beach Artist Open Studios will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This self-guided tour is free and is a rare opportunity to peer into the creative spaces of 24 of Laguna’s top artists. It’s a wonderful opportunity to jumpstart the festive season and to buy local art as holiday gifts, right from the source.

Artist studios are located throughout Laguna Beach with the majority nestled along Laguna Canyon Road. These studios, surrounded by oak trees and rich canyon colors are the creative backdrop for many artists. An insider tip is to drive outbound on Laguna Canyon Road as all the studios are located on the right hand side, making access easier. Other studios in the downtown include painter and photographer Cliff Wassmann at 419 Ocean Avenue and talented jeweler Karen Worden at 1492 South Coast Highway.

One suggested itinerary is to visit father and son ceramicists Marlo and Jesse Bartels at 2307 Laguna Canyon Road. Marlo’s public art works can be seen throughout the city. The current work in process at his studio is a sculpture for the City of Brea. Close by is Edith, with a beautiful collection of inspired hats and garments. Visit artist Maggie Spencer at 2707 Laguna Canyon Road make your own piece of kiln formed glass and see her colorful completed work. A few doors down at 2975 Laguna Canyon Road watch a demonstration of encaustics and paintings by Marsh Scott. In the same building chat with Ralph Tarzian, a veteran artist who will be working on his intricate bronze sculptures demonstrating the art of the “lost wax” process. At the very last stop in the Canyon at 20432 Laguna Canyon Road watch artists Louis Longi, Olivia Batchelder, Gerard Stripling and Michele Taylor transform their contrasting mediums of bronze, glass and silk into one sculptural image.

Enjoy this holiday art experience and the opportunity to obtain some truly inspired gifts.

For a map of studio locations and participating artists please visit www.lagunabeachcity.net or call (949) 497-0722.

Images available upon request.