When the cold is left behind and the ground begins to bloom, something starts to happen.

Artists, like the flowers of which Shakespeare spoke, “paint the meadows with delight,” and open their doors to those who would come in.

Such activity can mean only one thing: it is time for the Spring Art Studio Tour.

Thirty-nine artists at 27 working studios welcome art lovers from

10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, March 7 and 8 for a free, self-guided tour.

Artists of various media are located from Greenbank north to Oak Harbor, and will be showing their work while demonstrating and answering questions.

A studio tour exhibit which features one piece from each artist will be open for viewing at the Coupeville Rec Hall in downtown Coupeville during tour hours.

A color brochure with map and artist information is available online at www.WhidbeyWorkingArtists.com.

Brochures are also available before the event at most art galleries in Island, Snohomish and Skagit counties or at the Coupeville Rec Hall on the days of the event.