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T R O U B A D O U R S IN THE G A R D E N : P A N C H O A N D SAL of the pieces are meant for gardens rain or shine, while all gardeners had covered areas for more delicate artworks in the rain, and some opened parts of their homes. A similar number of artists and gardeners are expected to be accepted this year, with more entries received from the Deep Cove area. "Some of the artists are gardeners in their own right, so they also opened up their studios, which was a real bonus," explains Morgan. "We have already done preliminary jurying for the artists, and by the end of March, Linda (Feil), accompanied by a master gardener, will have judged the garden entries. Then we'll know how many gardens we have to match up with artists. Some gardens can accommodate more than one artist, like a painter and a sculptor. You won't necessarily see two painters in one garden unless they have very different styles." On the other hand, some people requested their artwork be shown together. "It creates a lovely ambience with the art and music in the garden together," says Morgan. "It exceeded our expectations by far. Some people split the gardens into east and west, and did one group one day and the other the next day. And while we had brochures out, our telephone answering machine was full both days with people phoning up and wanting to find out about the tour. It was enormously successful." As many of the Arts Council's events throughout the year need musicians, Morgan keeps a list of those she can call on for special events. Word gets around in the music community, so Morgan has a wide range of musical styles to offer, from keyboards, fiddlers and guitarists to Chinese ensembles and Latin American influences. "Once we are familiar with the gardens and the artists, we look at the availability of the musicians and try to match them up appropriately. One woman has an oriental garden, so we had the Orchid Ensemble, a Chinese group, play there. And we try to not have the same musicians playing on both days, so people get a real variety." Though it didn't happen last year, Morgan said people are welcome to organize small bus groups rather than everyone driving to each site by themselves. "It all went beautifully," smiles Morgan, who expects nothing less this year. Both artists and gardeners will be on hand to answer any questions, and prizes will be awarded again this year for the "People's Choice Garden and Artist." So, if you're having trouble contacting an artist or gardener these days, phone back later. Chances are they are in the studio or greenhouse, frantically getting ready for what will likely be their most exciting weekend of the year. And while you're at it, say a quiet prayer to the sun god for May 26-27. N O R T H V A N C O U V E R # ,, J R E C R E A T I O N C O M M I S S I O N Sunday, May 6 10:00am-3:00pm D e l b r o o k recCentre 600 West Queens Road Admission $ 1 , children under 12 years free O v e r 1 0 0 C r a f t e r s May