Somerville Open Studios will showcase works of over 300 artists, while the Historic Walking Tour - Hidden in Plain Sight: Eyes on East Somerville will open participant’s eyes to the many vestiges of the Victorian era that still exist in the area.

By Cathleen Twardzik

Over 300 artists in greater than 100 venues will open their homes and studios for the 13th Annual Somerville Open Studios Event (SOS) on April 30 and May 1 from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on both days.

During this free showcase of the arts, which is open to the public, mid-career, as well as emerging artists, the work of whom covers a broad spectrum of fine art styles and craft media, will exhibit their work, according to a press release.

On display, you will find “painting, collage, photography, sculpture, jewelry, works, [which are] inspired by and involving nature, fiber [and] textiles, video, pottery, glass, books and paper, drawing, graphic design, installation, furniture, multi-media and more,” said Bonnie Denis, an SOS 2011 Event Coordinator.

Visitors will be treated to art displays, in both traditional and non-traditional spaces, throughout the City.

“Somerville has an active arts scene,” said Terry Dovidio, an SOS 2011 Event Coordinator.

During the winter of 1999, two Somerville artists, Jonathan Derry and Laura Fayer, decided that the need existed for a citywide open studio event, which could provide a venue for artists, who worked from home, in small studio buildings and in larger buildings, to have the opportunity to exhibit their work to the public.

After having contacted artists throughout the City, that May, the first annual event occurred, and it featured just over 80 artists.

In 2004, Somerville Open Studios became a Massachusetts non-profit organization, which was established to provide access to artists and to expose the public to the wide variety of art-making activities in the City of Somerville.

Registration for the event takes place each year from December to January.  Any visual artist, who maintains a residence or studio space in Somerville is welcome to be part of the event and to register at http://www.somervilleopenstudios.org.

Attendees are encouraged to use public transportation, Somerville Open Studios trolleys, bicycles, scooters, or simply, to walk.

At approximately 15 minute intervals, during the event’s hours, you may catch a trolley. Signs will indicate the stops’ locations. The trolley route will be available in the map book.

Individuals, who are interested in providing assistance at the event, may contact Somerville Open Studios at exhibit@somervilleopenstudios.org.

If you find yourself itching for more to do that same weekend, then, you will also enjoy attending the Historic Walking Tour — Hidden in Plain Sight: Eyes on East Somerville on May 1.

That tour will be led by Edward Gordon, President of the New England chapter of the Victorian Society in America.

Meet at 2 p.m. at Mount Vernon Restaurant, since this tour will chart new territory.  The trek will end at Vinny’s Ristorante on Broadway for free appetizers.

The tour runs from 2 p.m. to approximately 4 p.m. or 4:30 p.m.

Brandon Wilson, Executive Director of the Somerville Historic Preservation Commission would like people to learn from having done this historic tour.  “The area has undergone many changes since it was first settled in the mid-eighteenth century.”

That is evident by “its diverse architectural styles and land use patterns.  Many houses have been surveyed and recently designated as historic structures, and this tour will highlight why they are being recognized and included in local historic districts.”

The Somerville Historic Preservation Commission is sponsoring this event, in collaboration with the East Somerville Main Street Program.

“This tour will cover a lot of new ground — with an emphasis on seeking out barely visible ornamentation, tucked away stables and workers cottages that retain original features that might ordinarily be overlooked,” said Wilson.

“On Washington Street, we’ll view a 1780s cottage, and discuss the beginnings of Mclean’s Hospital on Cobble Hill, as well as a vintage diner,” she said. Churches, recent and future positive developments on Broadway will also be included, as well as the Mudflat Studio, which is “nearing completion” in a former local theatre.  Wilson hopes that its interior will be part of the tour.

“Each year the City of Somerville celebrates the month of May as Preservation Month and sponsors a variety of events to highlight some of the historical assets of Somerville,” said Wilson.

The City is graced by, “architecturally or historically significant buildings, including numerous private residences, commercial and industrial structures and religious edifices,” she said.

What is the best part of the tour for Wilson?  “The opportunity to meet people who are interested in learning more about the community and exchanging observations about how it has changed and where it is going over the next five to 10 years.”

To ensure that you get the chance to celebrate the neighborhood’s rich history,

R.S.V.P. to info@eastsomervillemainstreets.org.