After going dark for two years due to the COVID pandemic, Vashon Island Visual Artists (VIVA) will offer its Spring Studio Tour on May 7 and 8, continuing on May 14 and 15. The tour is open each day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., featuring 36 studios and galleries representing 90 artists and craftspeople.

Brochures with the tour map can be found in Vashon’s restaurants and realtor offices, and at vivartists.com, which offers an interactive online map with details about each studio or gallery. Tour locations are spread throughout the island community from the town center to outlying farms and shores, providing a true trek through Vashon for urban visitors.

“We are overjoyed to be able to bring back this tradition that began more than 30 years ago,” said Marla Smith, who is VIVA’s president. “Our artists finally have an outlet for all the art they have created since the beginning of the pandemic.”

Several locations include the works of multiple artists. All items are available for sale, giving attendees the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind pieces to brighten their homes or find the perfect Mother’s Day gift.

Tour creations run the gamut from items that are functional to those that are decidedly decorative, featuring artists of every stripe — painters, potters, printmakers, photographers, jewelers, glass artists, fiber artists, mosaic artists, sculptors, woodworkers, and artisan soap makers.

New to the tour this year is a partnership with Vashon Adventures. If tour attendees rent eBikes to take the tour, Vashon Adventures will pick up any large or breakable items not easily carried by bike in its special “SWAG wagon,” then securely store them for tour-goers. What’s more, a portion of each bike rental will be donated to VIVA. Reservations can be made at vashonadventures.com.

The tour will follow all CDC and state COVID guidelines. Some studios or galleries may require visitors to show proof of vaccination and/or to wear a mask. For more information, visit vivaartists.com.