Nothing quite compares to the magic of visiting an artist in their studio, a place for experimentation, mistakes, and breakthroughs. An abundance of open studio events in and around New York City this fall invite you to explore the behind-the-scenes creative process and discover new artists along the way, too. Below is a handy guide for the major open studio events of the season, organized by opening date.
Bushwick Open Studios
Sept. 27–29
Though a bit of a hit-or-miss in recent years, Bushwick Open Studios remains an important event for Brooklyn’s art community, with hundreds of artists and spaces participating. This year’s loose theme, “Chrome and Flowers,” reflects the artistic energy of the local creative scene.
Poughkeepsie Open Studios
Sept. 28–29
Over two dozen of Poughkeepsie-based artists welcome you into their studios, where practices such as poetry, art therapy, woodworking, and jewelry-making commingle.
Newburgh Open Studios
Sept. 28–29
This weekend event prides itself on being Hudson Valley’s “most walkable studio tour” (though you’ll still need a car to get there), with plenty of art to explore in its 14th edition.
Jersey City Art & Studio Tour
Oct. 1 (kickoff event); Oct. 4–6 (open studios)
Known as JCAST, this event celebrates its 35th anniversary with group brunches preceding afternoons wholly dedicated to artist studios and local exhibitions.
Red Hook Open Studios
Oct. 5–6
Red Hook is not just the location of New York City’s only Ikea store — it’s also where many artists, writers, and musicians live and create, often in studios housed in 19th-century warehouse buildings. This is your chance to meet them and see their work.
Open Studio Hudson
Oct. 12–13
If you’re venturing upstate for leaf-peeping, dedicate time to this five-year-old studio event in the heart of the Hudson Valley. Artists this year include Linda Mussman, who recently explained her current process in a refreshingly relatable way: “It’s all one big ball of wax.”
EFA Open Studios
Oct. 18–19
Visit this event for a peek into the studios of dozens of international artists, and don’t miss a public art installation just outside the building with glowing lanterns by Xin Song.
Sunset Park Open Studios
Oct. 18–20
Don’t pass up the chance to visit artist studios in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park neighborhood, one of the latest emerging hotspots for creative practices across mediums and disciplines.
Gowanus Open Studios
Oct. 19–20
Gowanus is historically home to industrial warehouses and factories, making it the perfect location for artist studios. You’re invited to peruse these spaces and engage with the diverse community of creatives during this weekend event.
Manufacturers Village Artists Open Studios
Oct. 19–20
Over 65 artists welcome you to visit their studios at the historic Manufacturers Village nonprofit, which provides working space and community for local artists.
RiverArts Studio Tour
Nov. 2–3
Here you can visit artist studios across lower Westchester County, including the towns of Ardsley, Dobbs Ferry, Hastings-on-Hudson, Irvington, Tarrytown, and Sleepy Hollow.