When Burnaby artists open their studios to the public this weekend, the results will be felt far across the world.

Robert Sondergaard, who's taking part in the Burnaby Arts Council Studio Tour this weekend, will once again host his Painting for Africa event.

All proceeds from his sales over the weekend will help those who need small houses and improve water systems in villages in Africa.

Last year, Sondergaard helped out villages in Mali, West Africa, and he's hoping to beat last year's proceeds.

Sondergaard, a member of the Federation of Canadian Artists and the American Portrait Society, has paintings in private collections in Canada, the U.S.A., France, Britain and Australia.

His work has recently found a new audience in the film industry: Warner Brothers purchased paintings for a movie and for two TV series, What I Like About You and Just Jordan.

He's moved to a new location since last year's studio tour. He'll now be working from his apartment on Smith Avenue, which has been converted to a studio and gallery showcasing nearly 90 original paintings and 75 textprints, which cover the walls from floor to ceiling.

Sondergaard notes that because he no longer has gallery commission to pay, and no tax because it's going to charity, he'll be offering his works at a substantial savings.

The 81-year-old Sondergaard says he appreciates the chance to make a difference.

"I'm not exactly in top-notch condition, or I would go to Africa and help out myself," he said. "But I'm very grateful that I can help through my artwork."

This year's studio tour involves 23 artists at locations around the city, working in a variety of media including acrylics, graphite, oils, watercolours and mixed media. Fibre art, painted rocks and prints will also be displayed.

Karen Goodfellow, Eileen Fong, Judith Fairwood, Verna Eldred, Dorothy Doherty, Birgit Coath, Zoe Clemens, Solveig Brickenden, Jim Keayes, James Koll, Lucille Loose and Shirley Lowes are among the featured artists.

Also opening their doors to visitors are Gail MacKenzie, Shelley McDonald, Iryna Nikitinska, Donna Polos, Pat Rusnell, Lauraine Russell, Wendy Schmidt, Ron Simmer, Hanna Sims and Bill Thomson.

Studios are open Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 21 and 22, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A map and full details are available at the Burnaby Arts Council website, www.burnabyartscouncil.org, or by e-mailing info@burnabyartscouncil.org.

Call 604-298-7322 for information about the tour.

jmaclellan@burnabynow.com