In neighborhoods throughout the city, artists will be opening their studios, workspaces and even homes to share their work as part of the 12th annual Philadelphia Open Studio Tours.
“This program provides an excellent snapshot of the broadness and diversity of the types of artwork that’s happening in the city,” says Open Studio coordinator Ann Koivunen.
In 1999, the Philadelphia Open Studio Tours began with 13 artists; the event has grown to include 350 participants. “One of the most important factors for the Open Studio Tours is that it’s entirely inclusive, and it’s incredibly diverse,” Koivunen says. “Any artist that wants to participate is welcome, and that leads to a wide variety of work to see.”
One of many unique exhibits this year includes a wooden boat-building studio. For the first time, the Philadelphia Wooden Boat Factory will be opening its doors to showcase its creations, which are inspired by the heritage of the sea.
“This tour is like choose your own adventure,” says Koivunen. “Don’t be intimidated — go in with an open mind and expect to have a lot of fun.”
Get the app
The Open Studio Tours offers a free mobile app as a guide to the venues on the tour: It will tell you where the closest studio is to you based on your location. “The app is designed to be a tool as you’re out and about,” says Koivunen.
