Ventura Art Tour Preview, Fundraiser Today

Art lovers interested in an early peek at works to be displayed at this weekend’s Ventura Studio Artists Tour may view about 20 pieces at a local bank.

From 9 a.m. to noon today, Affinity Bank, a tour sponsor, will have paintings and sculptures from the artists on display in its lobby, 101 S. Chestnut St. The preview is free.

Twenty-nine artists will open the doors of 23 studios around the city from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday for people to visit and see their works. This first-time event is designed to raise up to $20,000 for outreach and arts education programs of Focus on the Masters, a nonprofit organization for Ventura County artists.

There will be a reception and fundraising event from 6 to 8 tonight at the Ventura County Museum of History and Art, 100 E. Main St., Ventura. Tickets are $20 and $25. Tour tickets are $15 and $20, and two free children’s tickets are available per paid adult.

Tickets may be purchased at the organization’s office, 1147 E. Main St., in Ventura; or at the Ventura Visitors & Convention Bureau, 89 S. California St. For more information, call Focus on the Masters at 653-2501; or check out its website at www.focusonthemasters.com.