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Poets and philosophers who have suggested that art is the right hand of nature surely had the Northwoods Art Tour in mind.

More than 30 of Northern Wisconsin's finest artists will open the doors of their studios and galleries from 10 AM to 5 PM on July 29th, 30th, 31st and October 7th, 8th and 9th, giving a unique behind the scenes opportunity to witness the creative process in the natural settings which provide their inspiration.

The self-guided tour winds through some of the prettiest back roads and byways in Vilas, Oneida, Langlade and Iron Counties. Art lovers will not only meet painters, potters, photographers, furniture makers, wood carvers, jewelers, metal workers and fiber artists face to face on their journey, but also enjoy the process of discovery and potential for unexpected delight.

Many of the galleries featured on the tour are open throughout the year. For the studio artists who often work alone the tour is a wonderful way to interact with the community, answer questions and share lively discussions in addition to demonstrating and selling their work. At some stops, visitors are invited to turn their own imaginations loose and participate in informal workshop opportunities.

This is the twelfth year the Northwoods Art Tour artists have issued their special invitation to the public. Joining the tour for the first time are Lac du Flambeau painter Christine Alfery, Schneider et Fille Pottery Shop on Squirrel Lake Road in Minocqua, and the Artistree cooperative gallery in Land O' Lakes.

The summer tour is the first of two scheduled for 2011, with the second opportunity to take place October 7th thru 9th. A map and detailed information about each artist and location are available for download at www.northwoodsarttour.com Visitors are encouraged to plan an entire weekend exploring the northwoods and indulging their appreciation for this remarkable group of regional artists.

Colorful guide brochures are also distributed by chambers of commerce throughout the tour area and the following galleries: Odonata (Mercer), the Artists' Pallete and Gallery 51 (Manitowish Waters), Moondeer and Friends or Arlene's Pottery and Gallery (Boulder Junction), Umlauf Art Studio (Lake Tomahawk), Three Lakes Center for the Arts (Three Lakes), Artistree Gallery (Land O'Lakes), and Old Schoolhouse Gallery (Star Lake).