Yellow Springs is defined by many things, and its diverse artist community must rank near the top of the list. If you appreciate art in all its forms, then visiting the town during its artist rour should be at the top of your list for Oct. 20-21.

This is the 12th such tour, and organizer Lisa Goldberg has it down to a science.

“For the third time, the tour will have eight host studio locations, each bursting with an eclectic variety of artists and craftspeople,” said Goldberg, whose studio, Lisa Goldberg Ceramics, is the sixth stop on the tour. “Many of these artists are nationally and internationally acclaimed through a variety of awards, accolades, articles, books and exhibitions.”

Her studio will also feature hand-fabricated jewelry by Donna D’Aquino, figural sculpture by Susie Broidy and whimsical paintings by Julie Beyer.

Backing up a bit, the first stop on the tour will be Miami Valley Pottery’s Naysan McIlhargey. Besides his beautiful and functional pottery, guests will be fascinated by his 450 cubic foot wood kiln. “Vicki & Tom” of Itinerant Studio will also be there presenting encaustics, photographs and prints.

If you enjoy children’s books, you’ll appreciate the second studio. Kathy Moulton will show her books, framed prints and notecards. Her artist buddies will be Cathy Mills with her functional pottery and Kim Gillie Krier presenting art quilts and fancy stitchery.

No. 3 is Alice Robrish, who explores the figural sculpture of many cultures.

Paintings and drawings by Sandi Sharp will join photo-realistic paintings by Jason Morgan at this studio.

Do you see what I see? Find the hidden squares in Pam Geisel’s art quilts at the fourth stop on the tour. While you’re there, don’t miss Libby Rudolf’s watercolors, Lisa Wolters cryptic clay vessels and Guustie Alvarado’s glass jewelry and wall hangings. Studio No. 5 is Chris Glaser’s, featuring his work in a variety of media, as well as woodblock prints by Andrea Starkey and unique jewelry by Alice Young-Basora.

“I’m excited that there will be so many new talented artists along with old favorites to make an exceptionally well-rounded and exciting tour this year,” said Goldberg.

After making your sixth stop at Goldberg’s, find Justin Teilhet’s shop, Cliffside Clayworks, on the map. He was recently featured in the Studio Visit section of Ceramics Monthly. His pottery has dynamic surfaces, alongside Ryan McCullough’s etchings, Dustin Harris’ soda-fired pottery and Jay Teilhet’s sterling silver jewelry.

Don’t get tired, because you must stop at the last studio and see Bruce Grimes’ wonderful clay pieces. He will present his wheel-thrown stoneware and decorative raku pottery and portraits. Sara Gray will be there with her stained-glass panels. You’ll need extra tables to hold all your new artwork, so consider Les Thede’s hardwood furniture.

“I’ve done all but one of these 12 tours. Not only is it a high-energy event, the artists develop good friendships from repeat customers and collectors,” said Grimes. “I think we’ve had close to 20 different states represented. A woman from Alaska who schedules her vacation to be here around this time.”

This self-guided driving tour provides an opportunity for people to meet the artists and get a head start on their holiday shopping. Art will be available in a wide range of prices. You can start your shopping early on Friday night with the Art Stroll downtown.