SoStudio Tour Triples in Popularity

Once again, Gulfport lives up to its reputation of being an art community. A rare connection between local artists paves the way for events like Saturday’s SoStudio Tour. Each participating artist was given the chance to present their studio to the public, artwork and all.

Last year’s trial run of the SoStudio Tour was kept small with just five studios and one point of departure for guests. With the amount of support the event received, the 2012 showcased more than tripled. Saturday hosted 16 studios and three points of departure.

“There was a lot of enthusiasm the first year, so then they told us to make it bigger,” said Andrea Royce. She is the Vice President of So49 and an event organizer.

16 area studios were featured along the route and three organizations (, Gulfport Neighborhood Center and Gulfport Arts Center) served as rest stops, dishing out beverages and food.

Barbara Nicolazzo is new to So49 and opened her studio up for the public on Saturday. She makes art out of cars and paints detailed, custom designs on a commission base. Nicolazzo had a hand in the event’s growth.

“It’s been a lot of hard work,” said Nicolazzo. “But I think it’s been fun.”

The Gulfport trolley shuffled tours from one studio to the next. Two So49 members, JSR Training and Farias Marketing Group, helped offset the cost for the trolley. Guests who reserved a wristband in advance only paid $5 for the vent, while on-the-spot observers paid $10. Artists mixed and mingled with the sea of supporters.

Along the studio route was the Artists’ Alley, located at 5437 29th Ave. S. The popular spot is home to , and Victoria Wenners.

Schork was happy to play a role in the event. “When they asked me to join, I said ‘sign me up,’” said Schork. “This event continues to remind people in Gulfport and the surrounding areas that this is an arts community.”