Held every Mother’s Day weekend, the self-guided Kirkland Artist Studio Tour (KAST) is now in its ninth year.

Some 50 artists at 20 studios and galleries will be showcased, representing a variety of media, including pottery, metalwork, jewelry, sculpture, fiber arts, photography, glass, furniture making and painting.

Visit with the artists and catch a glimpse into the creative process. You can purchase art directly from the artists or just soak up the inspiration.

The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 12-13 at multiple locations.

Kirkland Arts Center will host the tour. This year the KAC celebrates 50 years of promoting public participation in the visual arts through innovative classes, contemporary exhibitions, and events in Kirkland.

Tour visitors are invited into a variety of different studios to watch art demonstrations, and purchase art directly from the artists. The artwork on display and available for purchase includes: jewelry, glass art, paintings, ceramics, photography, garden art, printmaking, and more.

Kirkland Arts Center will be open to visitors on Saturday and Sunday as a venue for the studio tour. Clay? IV, an exhibition curated by Jayme Yahr in conjunction with the NCECA conference, will be on display in the KAC gallery, 620 Market St., Kirkland.

Participating galleries and studios for this year’s tour include: Allied Seahorse, Parklane Gallery, Sharp Art Gallery, Joanne Shellan Studio, Studio M, the KAC Store and many more.

For a complete list of participants and artists bios please visit: www.kirklandstudiotour.com