What is Open Studio?
Being a human is messy. Open Studio offers space for intentional art making and community as tools towards finding ease and beauty in the mess we make along the way.
The open studio model was originally developed by art therapist Pat Allen as a way to off-set systems of inequality by providing space for groups to gather outside of traditional therapy settings. Since 2019, we have adapted this model to address topics felt and experienced by our community. These themes range and inspire a monthly activity at the studio.
What to expect:
Open Studios are two hours long. Register beforehand to secure your spot. Before you arrive, you'll receive a copy of our community agreements. We try to keep the space welcoming for all and this helps us check in.
Day of: Your facilitator will greet you with snacks (duh) and get everyone settled into the space. We begin with a quote, a story, a youtube video, or a little ramble; whatever introduces the theme of the day. This won't be long though, we are here for art making after all! The remaining two hours will be your chance to follow the prompt, get lost in new skills, skip the theme altogether or chat with your fellow participants.
We will have all of the materials you need to get started and to make a mess.
Our hope:
That the time you spend at the studio teaches you a bit about yourself and others. We believe that making art is a tool.
Tools make or prepare something. Maybe the time you spent with others has prepared you for another day. Maybe you leave with a brain brimming with ideas. Maybe you draw the greatest circle ever. Maybe you have a new number for a potential friend. Whatever the case, we try to keep things open for you to get what you need from the process.
Don’t Forget!
Accessibility information about our studio.
Masks required, extra masks will be made available.
No previous art making experience required.
Attendance is open to anyone age 18+.
Open Studio Schedule:
Registration is updated 1-2 days after the most recent Open Studio each month. Holidays may impact this schedule – in which case – a group will be available the following month.
Queer Open Studio: First Thursday of each month
BIPOC Open Studio: Third Thursday of each month
Monthly Open Studio: Last Thursday of each month
The majority of Open Studios are made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Metropolitan Regional Arts Council, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.