The Santa Cruz Open Studios Art Tour, the county’s largest annual visual arts event, is marking its 40th year this October with a record-breaking roster of more than 340 participating artists working across 22 different mediums.
Tessa Hope Hasty in her studio in Bonny Doon.
Hosted by Arts Council Santa Cruz County, the month-long event invites the public to explore the creative process firsthand through self-guided visits to working artists’ studios across the region. Organizers say the event not only supports artists financially, but also strengthens the cultural identity of the community.
“Open Studios is more than just an event — it’s where our community gathers around creativity,” said Bree Karpavage, Open Studios and Tannery Arts Center Program Manager. “It’s about supporting local artists, investing in the cultural economy, and experiencing the joy of discovery.”
Studios will be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the first three weekends of October:
- Oct. 4–5: South County artists
- Oct. 11–12: North County artists
- Oct. 18–19: All County weekend, featuring more than 250 artists
Peter Vizzusi at his studio in Aptos.
To help visitors plan their routes, the Arts Council offers several tools, including a printed guide distributed at more than 700 local locations starting in mid-September, a free mobile app (“Santa Cruz County Open Studios”), and an interactive map at santacruzopenstudios.com. Studio locations will also be marked with the tour’s iconic green directional signs.
Two preview exhibitions will give audiences a taste of what’s to come. The Santa Cruz Art League will host a countywide preview from Sept. 26 to Oct. 19, while Pajaro Valley Arts will showcase artists from Watsonville, San Lorenzo Valley, Davenport and surrounding areas from Sept. 20 to Oct. 19.
Since its founding in 1985, the Open Studios tour has become a major economic and cultural force in the region. According to the national Arts & Economic Prosperity 6 study, the nonprofit arts sector generates more than $68 million annually in Santa Cruz County. Open Studios alone contributes more than $1 million in direct art sales each year.
Elijah Pfotenhauer at his studio in Santa Cruz.
“As we celebrate 40 years, we’re also looking ahead,” said Karpavage. “Our goal is to not only showcase extraordinary art, but to elevate the artists themselves and create lasting cultural impact.”
Organizers say the anniversary year is a chance to reflect on the tour’s legacy while also expanding access and visibility for new voices. A marketing toolkit is available for media, sponsors, and artists to help spread the word.
“This year, more than ever, we warmly invite everyone to discover, experience, and connect with the extraordinary creativity of Santa Cruz County,” said Mercedes Lewis, Communications Manager for Arts Council Santa Cruz County.