The Annual East Bay Open Studios Event has been an ongoing tradition in the San Francisco Bay Area for over 40 years. Formerly organized by Pro Arts, a non-profit art organization based in Oakland, the event is now produced by Dream World Media led by Carolyn Quan, an award-winning, internationally-collected fine artist, and artist advocate.
Open Studios are free self-guided tours of artist studios and exhibition spaces throughout the East Bay (Alameda County and Contra Costa County). Artists pay a registration fee to participate and the event is free for the public to enjoy.
The art-loving, art-buying public enjoys one-on-one interactions with the artists and artisans and have the opportunity to learn about what inspires the artists, connect with the artists one-on-one and purchase art directly from the artists. Artist venues can range from gallery settings, art studios, home studios, outdoor venues and other alternative exhibition spaces. Many artists serve refreshments, some give live demonstrations and some may even have live music.
Printed guidebooks and online artist directories guide visitors to the artist studios and exhibition spaces around the entire East Bay where the participating artists show. During the event, there are street signs directing you to artist locations. The event is a great opportunity for artists and art collectors to connect one-on-one with one another in interesting and inspiring environments.
