It’s that time of year again — San Francisco Open Studios is almost here. Studios of participating artists in the Mission District of San Francisco will be open the third weekend of October.

The organizer of SF Open Studios, ArtSpan is a nonprofit organization that builds community by connecting the public to visual arts in San Francisco. For over 30 years, San Francisco Open Studios has provided the public with an opportunity to see artists in their workspaces.

This year there will be extended hours at my studio, although I might not be there on the last day (Sunday) as I overbooked with another event, Capsule. Here are the hours for this fall’s open studios here in the Mission:

10/16 Thursday: After work preview from 5-8pm
10/17 Friday: Opening party from 7-11pm
10/18-19 Sat/Sun: 11am-6pm

To find me at SF Open Studios, stop by the 3rd floor of 744 Alabama St., San Francisco.

Santa Cruz is having a fashion show! Tomorrow night this event will feature emerging designers from Santa Cruz and the Bay Area at the Civic Auditorium in beautiful Santa Cruz, California.

My friend Jessica will have pieces from her clothing line I.Kohl on the catwalk as well as available for purchase. Along with the runway show will be a trunk show where attendees can purchase items from the designers directly.

This is the third annual event held to support emerging fashion talent! Proceeds from a drawing support the Cultural Council of Santa Cruz County.

**Trunk Show and Sale 5:30 p.m.
**VIP Champagne/Dessert Reception in the VIP Lounge 5:30 – 7:30p.m.
**Runway Showtime 7:30 p.m.
**Afterparty at Michaelangelo Studios

For more information on this event and for tickets look here.

I’m extremely flattered and excited about getting involved with the de Young for several events this fall. Aiko Designs jewelry will be in the special exhibit shop at the upcoming Asian American modern art exhibition at the de Young. The Asian/American/Modern Art: Shifting Currents, 1900-1970 exhibition runs from October 25th – January 18, 2009. When you exit the exhibit there is a small shop, check for my jewelry there!

I’m also honored to participate in the holiday shopping event the de Young is holding Fri-Sat, Nov. 21 & 22. There will be about 17 artisans/designers in the Piazzoni Murals Room selling their wares. I had the chance to meet some of the participants yesterday and am really excited about being included with these amazing artists. Some of them are:

Tsurukichi
Satomi Studio – jewelry by Kristina Kada
Hiroko Kurihara Designs