The first island art studio tours began in the 1980s as a small collective of individual artists. Now, almost a quarter century later, the organization is an official nonprofit, having received its 501(c)(3) status in June.

Art Studio Tour treasurer Christine Beck, with help from Hilary Emmer, shepherded the process, which only began after the conclusion of the spring tour last May.

“I believe in the nonprofit status,” Beck said. “The cooperative operation of that kind of structure is beneficial to both the artists and the community.”

The advantages, Beck said, include giving scholarships to artists plus sponsoring public workshops and educational programs, something the group previously could not do in an official capacity.

All island artists — visual and performing — are invited to join the newly minted nonprofit. Dues are $5 per year, and membership for artists who join now will cover this year through 2016. Studio tour fees are extra.

“We’ve already had a great response from the visual artists,” Beck said. “We sent an email out to about 300 artists who have been on the tour, and people are signing up.”

Unsolicited donations are also knocking on the door. Beck said someone called with a contribution that was matched 3 – 1 by the Gates Foundation.

The Art Studio Tour is guided by a 13-member board, including Morgan Brig as president, Brian Fisher as vice president, Mary Margaret Briggs as secretary and Christine Beck as treasurer.

For more information or an application, email cdbeck@yahoo.com or sy@novakcreative.com. –