By Andi Bedsworth

Travel is on the minds of many people during this time of year, and if the thought of visiting museums, and other artistic venues is part of your interests, you might find the following opportunity really interesting.

ArtWorks Foundation, who brings WinterArts to the Memphis area each winter is putting together some group tours for people interested in art. Their plans include visits to Crystal Bridges in Betonville, Arkansas as well as to New Orleans and other cultural centers.

The ArtWorks Foundation is a 501{c}3 non-profit focused on helping artists grow, in their business and their work, through programs including exhibitions and education initiatives.

We also award scholarships for advanced study workshops at schools for Fine-Craft, and are working to establish an endowment to fund Emergency Relief Grants to help area artists resume careers derailed by disasters or catastrophic illness. As well as producing the WinterArts Show each holiday season, they also host an Art2Wear show, which spotlights artisans making and selling fine jewelry, apparel and accessories, and Art Paired which features tastings of libations with fine crafts.

Having attended both the WinterArts and Art2Wear, I can say that these shows are well produced, feature top-notch artisans and are well organized. If the tours are anything like the shows, I am sure all details will be covered and great experiences will be offered.

Their initial tour to Crystal Bridges will take place over a Tuesday through Friday (3 nights), with one night in Little Rock for a visit the Arkansas Art Center, and two nights in Bentonville, to see Crystal Bridges and environs. They have several possible dates for this tour in August, September, and October. They are hoping to get feedback on which dates work best for interested parties.

Their first excursion to New Orleans will take place over a Monday through Friday (4 nights); they will visit studios to see glass blowers and other artists at work, as well as visit museums including as the Ogden Museum of Southern Art; plus make time to explore restaurants, shops, and musical venues. There are possible dates in September and October and if you are interested in either of these trips, please let them know which dates and destination you prefer, so they can put together an itinerary and pricing.

For more information go to www.artworks.foundation or call 901-327-4019.

Andi Bedsworth is owner of Art To Go, which brings free art opportunities to children in the community