Elgin County Studio Tour 2026

Artist Participation Agreement

Thank you for being part of the 2026 Elgin County Studio Tour! The Studio Tour is a collaborative event that relies on each artist’s participation, professionalism, and enthusiasm to create a successful and enjoyable experience for visitors and fellow artists alike.

By participating in the tour, you agree to the following:

1. Tour Dates and Hours
   Your studio must be open to the public during the full advertised tour hours:
   Saturday, September 26 and Sunday, September 27, 2026
   10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day

2. Artwork Availability
   Please ensure you have enough work on hand to display and offer for sale throughout the weekend.

3. Approved Artists Only
   Only the work of the artist(s) approved and listed in this agreement may be exhibited or sold as part of the Studio Tour.

4. Promotion and Marketing
   By participating, you agree that your name, studio name, address, artist bio, and submitted images may be used by ECST for promotional purposes, including the website, social media, print materials, and other marketing related to the tour.

5. Original Work
   The focus of the tour is original, handmade work created by participating artists. Up to 20% of your inventory may consist of prints or reproductions.

6. Studio Readiness
   Please make sure your studio space is safe, welcoming, and presentable for visitors.

7. Insurance and Responsibility
   All participating artists are required to carry a minimum of $1,000,000 in liability insurance for the duration of the tour.
   Please note that the Elgin County Studio Tour and its Executive Committee are not responsible for loss, damage, or injury before, during, or after the event.

8. Tour Signage
   Each studio will receive three (3) Studio Tour signs. These must be posted by 9:00 a.m. on the first day of the tour and removed by 9:00 p.m. on the final day. Signs must be returned to ECST when requested.

9. New Work for Returning Artists
   Returning artists are asked to present at least 25% new work to keep the tour fresh and engaging for returning visitors.

10. Visitor Engagement
    One of the most valuable parts of the Studio Tour is the chance for visitors to connect directly with artists. Participants are encouraged to demonstrate, share their process, and interact with guests to create an engaging and educational experience.

11. Meetings
    Artists are expected to attend two meetings each year: one in May and one in October.

12. Helping Make the Tour a Success
    The Studio Tour is a shared effort, and all artists are asked to contribute by volunteering with planning and/or helping distribute promotional materials.

13. Participation Fee
    Participation fees are set each year at the AGM and are due in full when this agreement is signed.
    The 2026 participation fee is $225 per artist.
    Please note that fees are non-refundable after April 1, 2026.

14. Participation Expectations
    We ask all artists to honour the commitments outlined in this agreement. Failure to do so may result in the loss of your space in the tour, and your participation fee may be forfeited.