What Is an Open Art Studio Event, and How Do You Visit One?

An open art studio event is a set time when artists open their studios to the public. How it works, what to expect, and a New York example: EFA Open Studios, October 9 and 10, 2026.

By Marius Pașculea · · 3 min read

Antre card: Open Art Studio Event

Short answer

An open art studio event, usually called an open studio event, is a set period when a group of artists open their studios to the public, usually free, so visitors can see where and how the work is made.

Key facts

  • What it is: an event in which, for a limited time, artists and makers open their studios to the public (Wikipedia, secondary source)
  • Cost: normally free to visit during published hours (Wikipedia)
  • Example: EFA Open Studios, October 9-10, 2026, Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts, New York
  • EFA Open Studios 2026: Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10
  • Where: EFA Center, 323 West 39th Street, New York, NY 10018
  • Admission: free and open to the public (EFA)

What is an open art studio event?

The sources cited here say “open studio event.” “Open art studio event” is the series’ own name, matching “open art studio” in the previous article.

Wikipedia describes studios that are not normally open becoming open within a locality and a time frame set by the event. One of the first in the UK was Brighton Artists Open Houses; others include Spring Fling Open Studios in Scotland and Helfa gelf in Wales.

What does an example look like? EFA Open Studios, New York

The Elizabeth Foundation for the Arts says it welcomes the public to explore 85 artist studios, together with programming and exhibitions, all in its building in Midtown Manhattan. Its schedule for 2026:

  • Friday, October 9: 4 to 6 pm Professional Preview (by RSVP); 6 to 9 pm Opening Night, registration encouraged
  • Saturday, October 10: 12 to 1 pm panel discussion “All History is Contemporary”; 1 to 6 pm Open Studios; 2 to 3 pm curator walkthrough of “Asilah Oui: Robert Blackburn in Morocco”
  • Location: EFA Center, 323 West 39th Street, New York, NY 10018

EFA states that the event is free and open to the public. Check the EFA page before you go, since the program can change.

How do you visit an open art studio event?

  • Find the dates and hours on the organizer’s page
  • Check whether registration or RSVP is requested
  • Go in with a question or two. EFA describes the event as a chance to engage with the artists (a general suggestion, not a rule from the sources)

FAQ

What is an open art studio event in one sentence?

A set time when artists open their studios to the public.

Is it free?

Normally yes, per Wikipedia. EFA Open Studios is free and open to the public.

Do I need to RSVP?

For EFA, the Friday Professional Preview is by RSVP and registration is encouraged for opening night. Saturday’s program is listed as open to the public.

When is EFA Open Studios in 2026?

Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10.

About Antre

Antre is building an app that gives artworks their context. Join the waiting list.

Sources

Keep reading

Join the waiting list