VISUAL ARTS

On August 11 and 12, the ART drive returns to the Southcoast for its 5th annual exhibit with 28 Dartmouth and Westport artists hosting an open studio weekend. Consisting of some of the area’s premiere painters, ceramic artists, photographers, jewelers, woodworkers and others, the ART drive places unique emphasis on a consistent and high level of professionalism and quality in some very unusual and dramatic studio settings. In addition, several of the ART drive venues will also have guest artists exhibiting their work. This year, participating artists are applying their own unique creativity and styles to create large, colorful depictions of Yellow Fin Tuna, another favorite of the South Coast and a species known to the area. Last year’s exhibit featured Striped Bass. On August 11 and 12, from 10am to 5pm, stationed outdoors along the Art drive routes--in public spaces and in front of stores, shops, businesses and other sites in Dartmouth and Westport--will be 42 four-foot-long Yellow Fin Tuna. Lovers of the arts will enjoy a great weekend escape while touring these historic ‘hidden gem’ Southcoast towns in Massachusetts. With only 15 miles separating the thirty studios, visitors will enjoy a casual drive through this picturesque area with ample time to enjoy all the area has to offer.