Ventura, CA -- Focus on the Masters (FOTM) is pleased to announce the 4th Annual Ventura Studio Artists Tour Weekend, May 18-20, 2007 in Ventura, California. The weekend features two full days of leisurely, self-guided tours to more than forty studios, as well as the rare opportunity to interact with artists in their work spaces. From large industrial warehouses to intimate backyard sanctuaries, the studios provide the environment for artists to create a variety of works from spectacular glassworks and woven tapestries to intricate sculptures and canvases ablaze with color. Demonstrations, hospitality, and opportunities to purchase art are all part of the Tour experience offered both Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets ($25) are good for both days and may be purchased in advance online at FocusOnTheMasters.com, by phone 805/653-2501 or at the FOTM office, 1147 E. Main Street, Ventura. To encourage education in the arts, FOTM is offering two free tour tickets for students under 18 when accompanied by a paying adult.

The Ventura Studio Artists Tour Weekend kicks off Friday evening, May 18, with the not-to-be-missed opening night Artist Reception & Fundraising Gala from 6:30 to 9:00 pm at the Brooks Institute of Photography Motion Picture Campus located at 5301 N. Ventura Ave., Ventura. Each Gala ticket includes dinner hosted by Aloha Steakhouse, wine from California wineries, live entertainment, and the opportunity to mingle with artists, event sponsors and community leaders. Tickets ($45) must be purchased in advance. FOTM, Ventura County Museum of History & Art and Brooks Institute Students and Faculty members receive a $5 discount on Gala and Tour tickets.

The Tour weekend concludes with an AfterGLOW Celebration on Sunday, May 20, from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. at Ventura Harbor Village Gallery. Admission to the celebration is included with each tour ticket, and features refreshments and a cruise of the Ventura Harbor on an Island Packers catamaran.

“The Studio Tour creates unique experiences that facilitate a greater understanding and appreciation of the arts,” notes Donna Granata, Focus on the Masters Founder and Executive Director. In addition to bringing highly accomplished artists to the forefront of the community, the Ventura Studio Artists Tour Weekend also creates a viable fund-raising mechanism for Focus on the Masters – a nonprofit arts organization that documents, preserves and presents the works and lives of accomplished Ventura County artists. Proceeds from the tour weekend will benefit arts education in the community.