Yes, it’s that time of year again, time to open your studios to the public through the Capital Artists’ Studio Tour (CAST). The seventh anniversary of CAST brings a bigger and better Tour with lots of NEW BENEFITS for the artists. Many of these changes came from artists’ feedback in the yearly event survey. They include:
- A TWO WEEKEND TOUR: The Tour will now run over the course of two weekends. This year you will be able to open your studio during one weekend AND have the opportunity to see other studios on the other weekend—an idea implemented after much artist feedback regarding the event.
- Expanded Tour Area: The geographical area has expanded to include all studios within approximately a 10 mile radius of CCAS. New areas include the Arden-Arcade Area, Carmichael, Natomas, Fair Oaks, Citrus Heights, Orangevale, Nimbus, Rio Linda, Freeport and West Sacramento. If you are not sure where your studio fits in, give us a call.
- 25,000 Printed CAST Guides: New this year is a four-color, printed magazine-style Tour guide which will be distributed throughout the region to promote the event and be available online for easy download by tour goers.
- Three Artist Marketing Training Sessions: More support and classes for participating artists than ever before.
- Collaboration with Galleries and Community Organizations: This year many private galleries will be open during the tour, supporting it and promoting it. Other community and arts organizations will be participating also, such as the Hart Senior Center and the Developmental Disabilities Service Organization Short Center Studios.
- Promotional Artist Shows: More special events leading up to and during the Tour, such as exhibitions before the Tour to generate enthusiasm for the event as well as interactive events at various locations throughout the community to promote interest.
- NARM Enrollment: CCAS Patron level membership which includes enrollment in the North American Reciprocal Museum (NARM) program which enables entrance to over 400 North American museums included in registration.
- Web Presence: An improved web presence, with lots of perks, including links to your website.
- More, More, More: Improved signage, improved media and event marketing, gallery participation and more bike tours this year!
- Sales, Sales, Sales: More help with marketing and promotion, plus access to CCAS’ merchant account to facilitate credit card sales transactions, all designed to boost your sales this year.
