Every October, the vibrant art scene of Santa Cruz County comes to life as more than 300 artists open their studios to the public. This year, the 39th Annual Santa Cruz County Open Studios Art Tour, produced by Arts Council Santa Cruz County, promises an engaging celebration of creativity. Over the first three weekends in October, visitors can immerse themselves in a unique behind-the-scenes experience, connecting with local artists, exploring their creative spaces, and buying directly from the studio. Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or just starting your journey into the art world, this free, self-guided tour offers something for everyone.
As you plan your tour, make sure to include these must-see spots handpicked by the tour’s long-time producer, Ann Ostermann. After 20 years of dedication, Ann will be retiring, but not before leaving us with her personal highlights of this year’s tour.
NORTH COUNTY
The first studio I ever visited! Stepping into Marie’s studio is like entering a garden in full bloom. Her delicate watercolors capture the essence of flowers with such grace that they seem to come alive. For lovers of natural beauty, her work is an absolute must-see.
In Mickey’s workshop, wood transforms into art. His exquisite craftsmanship is evident in every piece, from the graceful curves and intricate inlays to the custom designs tailored to each client.
Beth’s studio offers a journey into a world shaped by the year’s chosen theme. Her watercolors tell rich, detailed stories, while her ceramics bring those narratives to life in vibrant, three-dimensional form.
Andrea’s studio is a sanctuary for nature lovers. Her breathtaking woodcut prints capture the intricate beauty of the natural world with lifelike precision. Often found carving when you visit, Andrea’s dedication to her craft is evident in the precise artistry of her prints.
Ann’s jewelry merges elegance with everyday wearability. Her studio showcases a collection where lovely shapes meet intriguing textures. Each piece, from necklaces to earrings, is thoughtfully designed to add a touch of sophistication to your daily life.
SOUTH COUNTY
Tom’s studio is a tactile wonderland where ceramics invite both the eye and the hand. His carved pieces, with their intricate designs, are not just to be admired but to be touched. His work seamlessly blends visual appeal with tactile pleasure, creating a harmonious experience for the senses.
Heather turns glass into a medium for storytelling with her etched drawings. Each piece she creates is a stunning narrative where light and shadow dance across beautifully detailed glass surfaces, reflecting her precision and creativity.
In the heart of La Selva Beach, Felix’s surfboard repair shop doubles as a gallery for his breathtaking nature photography. His images capture the soul of the natural world, reflecting his deep connection to the environment and offering viewers a serene glimpse into nature’s beauty.
Perched with views overlooking Monterey Bay, Charles’s studio is as magnificent as his paintings. His art, rich in color and emotion, resonates deeply with the surrounding landscape. The combination of his stunning work and the incredible setting creates an immersive and inspiring experience for visitors.
Hermelinda brings tradition to life with her hand-carved and hand-painted Alebrijes. These vibrant, fantastical creatures, rooted in Oaxacan heritage, are crafted with meticulous care. Each piece tells a captivating story of tradition and artistic expression.
Event Dates and Locations: Open Studios takes place the first three weekends of October, from 11am to 5pm. Studios are divided between North and South County (with the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor as the dividing point) on the following schedule:
● Oct. 5-6: North County artists – from the yacht harbor north
● Oct. 12-13: South County artists – from the yacht harbor south
● Oct. 19-20: All County – featuring 250+ artists across the county
Plan Your Free Tour of Open Studios
Explore Online: Visit the Open Studios artist A-Z pages on our website to browse all participating artists and learn more about their work.
Get Your Free Guide: Pick up a printed Artist Guide at Good Times locations across the county starting September 16. Look for icons indicating wheelchair accessibility, demonstrations, or Spanish-speaking studios.
Download the App: Grab the free “Santa Cruz County Open Studios” app from iTunes or Google Play, available September 16.
Follow Us: Stay connected on social media: Facebook | Instagram
Look for Green Signs: During Open Studios, follow the green signs with artist names and arrows to find studios across the county.
Preview Exhibits:
● Santa Cruz Art League (526 Broadway, Santa Cruz): View art from all Open Studios artists, September 27 – October 20. Public reception on September 29, 3–6 pm. (scal.org)
● Pajaro Valley Arts (Porter Building, 280 Main Street, Watsonville): Featuring art exclusively from artists in La Selva Beach, Watsonville, Davenport, Bonny Doon, San Lorenzo Valley, and Scotts Valley, September 21 – October 20. Public reception on September 21, 2-4 pm. (pvarts.org)
Plan Your Visit: For accommodations, dining, and more, visit Visit Santa Cruz County and make the most of your Open Studios experience!
Open Studios Art Tour is a program of Arts Council Santa Cruz County. Special thanks to our generous sponsors:
● Presenting Sponsor: Sutter Health
● Major Sponsors: Good Times & Santa Cruz County Bank
● Media Sponsor: Lookout Santa Cruz
Join us this October to celebrate the vibrant artistic community of Santa Cruz County!
About Arts Council Santa Cruz County
The Arts Council’s mission is to nurture and invest in artists, culture, and the arts. Together, we’re building a stronger Santa Cruz County, where all artists have access to the resources they need to thrive, where a full range of creative expression is accessible to everyone, and the arts are recognized for their essential contributions to a healthy, vibrant, and representative community.
Through grants to artists and arts organizations, arts education programs that serve more than 18,000 youth across Santa Cruz County, and community initiatives such as Open Studios Art Tour, the Tannery Arts Center, and the Watsonville Center for the Arts, we help Santa Cruz County thrive. Learn more at artscouncilsc.org
