What Is an Open Art Studio?

Short answer

An open art studio, usually called an open studio, is an artist’s studio or workroom that is made accessible to visitors, often for a short time during an organized event, so that people can see work being made or shown where it is made.

Key facts

• Definition used here: Wikipedia describes an open studio (the established term for an open art studio) as “a studio or workroom which is made accessible to allcomers, perhaps just in the short term, during an open studio event” (secondary source)
• A visit takes place in the artist’s working space, which is normally private
• Most open studio events are free to visit (Wikipedia, “Open studio event”)
• Many events run only a few days a year

What is an open art studio?

The sources cited here call this an “open studio.” The term “open art studio” is the name this series uses; the sources do not use it. Both names refer to the same thing: an artist’s working space opened to visitors.

Wikipedia’s entry on the open studio defines it as a workroom open to all comers where creative work can be viewed and created collaboratively, intended to encourage experimentation and conversation. Its article on open studio events describes artists and makers opening their studios to the public for a limited time, in a place and within a time frame set by the event.

How is an open art studio different from a gallery?

A gallery is set up to show and, for commercial galleries, sell work. A studio is where the work is made. In a studio, visitors can see tools, materials and works in progress, as well as finished pieces. Wikipedia says an open studio event can offer an unusual insight into the places and the ways in which artists work.

What can you ask at an open art studio?

The sources do not prescribe questions. Questions a visitor might bring: what is on the table right now, how long did this piece take, what came before it.

FAQ

What is an open art studio in one sentence?

An artist’s workspace opened to visitors.

Is an open art studio free?

Wikipedia says that during published opening hours it is normal for anyone to visit a studio free of charge. Check each event, since rules vary.

Do I need to book?

It depends on the event. Some events encourage registration. See “What Is an Open Art Studio Event, and How Do You Visit One?” for a New York example.

Can I buy art at an open art studio?

The sources cited here do not say. Ask the artist.

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Sources

• Wikipedia, Open studio (secondary source): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_studio
• Wikipedia, Open studio event (secondary source): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_studio_event