Photo taken in 2017 by Jeff Blake.

The eighth annual Columbia Open Studios tour, presented by 701 Center for Contemporary Art (701 CCA), will be on Saturday, April 7 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday, April 8 from 12-6p.m. The self-led tour features 70 local artists spanning the City of Columbia and Richland and Lexington counties. A preview party will be held Thursday, April 5 from 7-9p.m. in 701 Whaley’s Olympia room to kick off the weekend event.

Columbia Open Studios gives attendees the opportunity to meet 70 artists from the Midlands and to learn about the materials and techniques used when creating their pieces. A variety of art will be represented, from ceramics and sculptures to photography, printmaking, and painting.

Guests can chat with the artists about their work and watch as some demonstrate their creative process live. Artworks are available for purchase, and as part of 701 CCA’s mission to support the Midlands’ art community, artists keep 100 percent of sales made during Columbia Open Studios.

Tickets are $10 for 701 CCA members and $15 for non-members. Buy a ticket online at https://www.columbiaopenstudios.org/preview-party/ or at the door.