East side artists showcased

Updated: Friday, 12 Nov 2010, 5:55 AM CST
Published : Friday, 12 Nov 2010, 5:55 AM CST

AUSTIN (KXAN) - This weekend you can check out some of Austin's hidden art studio and the artists behind their work.

It's all part of the 9th annual East Austin Studio Tour .

"The studio is called Bearded Lady and we're a screen printing studio," said Josh Chalmers, Bearded Lady Owner.

Tucked away on the east side of town is an art studio you would never know existed from the outside.

"We kind of like it that way," said Chalmers.

Josh Chalmers started it with his friend 10 years ago printing posters for his band - others liked his work and a business was born.

"We create our own t-shirt designs and we sell them out of our studio at open house and sell them out of retail outlets," said Chalmers.

And for the last seven years they've taken part in the East Austin Studio Tour.

"It allows us to meet new clients and show off our wares," said Chalmers.

This year 300 artists are taking part. It's a free self-guided tour of more than 150 art studios all in East Austin.

"It's really important to show the community what is happening on the East side," said Meredith Powell, Ex. Dir. Art Alliance Austin.

You can meet the artist and even buy some of their work.

"It's really important to understand that the artists who are creating over here are what make Austin so special," said Powell.

Especially since many are getting priced out of the area.

"The property over here used to be a lot cheaper so all the artists flocked over here to be able to find an inexpensive space to work," said Chalmers.

And since they hope to stay - they need the public to support them. The East Austin Studio Tour runs this weekend and next.

Friday night there's a VIP tour of 7 of the studios.? The cost is $55.

And during the weekend event you're encouraged to ride your bike from studio to studio.

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