Art Trails 2017 (Clockwise from top L: Fascinator created by Amy Smith, Amy Smith, Nicole Ours, current painting in progress by Oars, Nina Bonos with her artwork)

Mama and I spent our Sunday visiting local artist studios that were open to the public as part of Santa Rosa Art Trails. We loved seeing how different artists organize their workspace as well as admiring their finished pieces.

Today was the final day of the annual event, which had to be postponed this year because of the fires. We hadn’t been able to go since the first year we moved here, but we felt it was important to show our support again this year. Everywhere we went, we all talked about our firestorm experiences and how we’ve been affected.

Mama has long been interested in a hat maker who she’s previously seen in the Art Trails catalog. Today we finally made it out to meet Amy Smith (pictured top middle). We loved her collection and her studio. I was especially intrigued by her delightful fascinators!

We also went to see Nicole Oars (pictured top right), who is a friend of Mama’s from her memoir writing class for seniors. I absolutely loved Nicole’s peaceful ocean landscapes.

Roses outside Nina Bonos’ studio

Mama and I ended the day at the studio of Nina Bonos, who we met three years ago at our first open studios tour here (though Nina’s daughter and I have been friends since we were teens). Pictured bottom left, Nina told us how this work of vibrant boxes came to represent her hopes that color will return to the neighborhoods reduced to ash. We proudly display one of Nina’s pieces full of Jewish symbolism in our living room. It was lovely to see her again!

Today’s #OneGoodThing was visiting local artist studios with Mama and spending time with some incredible artists!

Day 302 of 365. And Day 668 in a row!

1 year ago today: Art in progress

What was your #OneGoodThing today? Please share in the comments!