The 13th Annual Catoctin Holiday Art Tour Keeps It Cozy

A new tour stop and a new artist join this year.

LOVETTSVILLE, VA — A picturesque stone bank barn sits on a hill a few miles south of Lovettsville, Virginia. This year, the historic structure will be one of the 10 studios open to the public for the Catoctin Holiday Art Tour. Painter Nancy Ramsey will open her unique display space for the tour from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, November 16, and Sunday, November 17.

Nancy’s vivid abstract landscapes are inspired by the Loudoun countryside and local maps. For the tour, her barn studio will also feature the ceramic work of CHAT’s newest artist, Carolee Stearns. Stearns has worked in many mediums, but started working on pottery seriously more than a decade ago at the studio of Kristen Swanson (another CHAT artist). Since then, she has worked with many other local potters, and now teaches pottery herself. After throwing vessels on the wheel, Stearns uses carving and glaze techniques to create uniquely textured pieces. “After participating in the tour as a shopper for so many years, I’m so excited to be part of it,” Stearns says.

Organized by a group of Lovettsville artists more than a decade ago, the Catoctin Holiday Art Tour has grown into one of the most anticipated events of the holiday season for art collectors and for shoppers looking for locally crafted treasures. Lovettsville resident Mary Torres says CHAT is “really a community event — I look forward to it all year,” but people travel from all over the Washington, D.C., area — and as far away as Pennsylvania — for the experience. With 24 artists exhibiting their work in 10 studios within a five-mile radius of Lovettsville, it’s easy to visit every studio in a day. “We’re committed to keeping it cozy,” CHAT organizer and painter Kaarin Nelson (Tour Stop 10) says.

Handmade items will be available at a range of prices. Someone who hits all the stops will find much more than great paintings, prints, and photographs for the wall. Look for one-of-a-kind jewelry, furniture, ornaments, forged metalwork, wooden utensils, functional and sculptural ceramics, coloring books, pewter work, baskets, refrigerator magnets, and fiber arts, including scarves, appliquéd purses, and other accessories.

Each site is just a short drive from the next through Western Loudoun’s beautiful wine country. Planning a visit? Download a map, see photos, and learn more at catoctinart.com, or keep updated through the group’s Facebook or Instagram pages.

Posted on: November 7, 2024