This weekend “Art Trek Tryon: foothills open studios” holds center stage from Tryon, Saluda, Columbus, Landrum, Mill Spring and Green Creek.

In its second year, this major weekend event is a self-guided tour of 41 artists studios opened to the public free of charge.

Orange signs will help visitors from around the Carolinas find their way to the artists studios on Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, noon to 5 p.m.

Sponsors throughout the area will have an orange sign on display showing support and hospitality to trekkers.

On Friday an exhibit for participating artists opens at the Upstairs Artspace with a preview party from 5 to 8 p.m. Refreshments and music will add to the festive kick-off. The exhibit runs through August 21. Meet the artists whose work is displayed as a sampling of the creativity the weekend tour (or “trek”) offers.

“Art Trek Tryon” is a great way to discover the immense talent in the foothills, organizers say. The art covers many favorite forms: painting, pottery, folk and fiber art, woodturning and woodcarving, furniture, metal work, indoor and outdoor sculpture.

During the trek the artists will talk about their art and demonstrate how they make it. Much of the art will be for sale.

Extra pleasures of the tour are the scenery and tucked-away places like Miller Mountain and Green Creek. Many studios have beautiful views. Some artists have private galleries.

“Art Trek Tryon” is expected to have a positive effect on businesses in Polk County and Landrum. “Not only will visitors enjoy our art, they’ll partake of community services like shops and restaurants,” say Ann and John Gargiulo of Vines & Stuff in Tryon.

Wyndy Morehead has organized the event again this year.&bsp; Says Morehead, “We expect the event will only grow in size, that it will be fun for all ages, and that before long, it will be a major festival.”

The Upstairs will be open during the weekend. People can pick up a brochure with a map and driving directions. Fans and water will be available also. The gallery is located at 49 S. Trade Street (next to the movie theater). There’s no charge for the event.

For more information call 828-859-2828.Participating artists:Tryon

Richard Baker

Chris Baschon

Betty Burdue

Bill Crowell

Margaret Curtis

Margaret Davis

Brian Fireman

John Fisher

Ann Gleason

Diana Gurri

Linda Hudgins

Christine Mariotti

Rich Nelson

Janet Orselli

Danny Ramey

Ann Weiler

Dale Weiler

Tom Zumbach

Saluda

Bonnie Bardos

Jim Carson

Mark Gardner

Anne Jameson

William Jameson

Stoney Lamar

Eva McCray

Kelly McCullough

Dale McEntire

Beverly Pickard

Bill Ryan

Jim Shackelford

John Waddill

Holly Wilkes

Columbus

Joe Cooper

Pan Goodhand

Martine House

Keith Spencer

Green Creek

Andy Costine

Derek Hennigar

Clark Loro

Landrum

Jim Cornell

Mill Spring

(Pea Ridge)

B. J. Precourt