The Highway 1 Studio Tour kicked off yesterday, showcasing that professional art is only a short drive away in the southwest.

The self-guided tour features different art studios and the works that they create, as well as other local art made in different locations.

The destinations of the tour are up and down the Number One Highway, stretching from Beverley to Herbert.

This is the 10th year that the tour has been held in Swift Current area, and featured a few new activities including face painting, a petting zoo, and other activities to celebrate its 10th year.

Kim Undseth, treasurer of the board for the Highway 1 Studio Tour, and featured local potter, said that it was important to her to showcase local art because it creates interest in the arts, and in turn, more local artists.

"Well I think it's good because it shows people, it gets them interested in art, and I know I have lots of people come into my pottery studio and then ask about taking courses, so I think anything that builds awareness for art is going to peak some interest."

Undseth also said that often people overlook local art.

"Well I always think it's good to support your local artists, and to see what is happening in Saskatchewan, we have a lot of talented artists in our community and sometimes we go further away to look for art, but it's right here."

Six locations were available for the public to see the presented art, and around 13 artists are featured.

Some locations are also home to some artists studios which they have opened to the public to see how their art is created.

Types of art that was featured ranged from woodwork such as bowls and skulls, clay pottery, and even pens.

Vendors also set up shop at some locations, selling honey and other items.

Maria Enns, a member of the board for the Highway 1 Studio Tour and artist featured by the event, said that this event was great for making art seem accessible for the public to admire as well as to be involved with.

"I think it really helps the community come alive when we do events where people come out and get together and get to talk, I think it's also kind of awesome that the community gets to see artists in their studios for the most part, and get to see a little bit of their process because a lot of times we just see the end product, and this is kind of a different way of showing people how artists work too."

The event continues for its second day of activities today.