Information for Artists and Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Arts Connect Open Studios Weekend? Open Studios Weekend is an event being organized by Arts Connect. It will kick off the 250Lex month of November designation as ARTS MONTH. This will be a landmark event when artists all over Lexington will open their creative spaces to the public for Lexington's OPEN STUDIOS WEEKEND. This event will be a wonderful opportunity to see artists at work, get a glimpse into their process and in some cases, take advantage of studio sales. Whether you're an art lover, a collector, a fellow artist or just curious about exploring this intriguing world, then Lexington's OPEN STUDIOS WEEKEND will provide a unique way to celebrate and experience Lexington's creative community. For participating artists, it's a wonderful way to connect with new audiences, inspire young visitors, and enjoy a more personal engagement with the public. Arts Connect will develop the roster of artists and create a comprehensive Directory that maps the studio locations and provides information on all participants. This year there will also be an OSW App for download. This event is being sponsored by 250Lex and is FREE to the Artists and the Community to participate. |
IF YOU WISH TO PARTICIPATE BUT DO NOT HAVE A STUDIO OR LIVE OUTSIDE FAYETTE CO., THERE ARE A LIMITED NUMBER OF SPACES YOU CAN CONSIDER FOR TEMPORARY SETUP. Inquire at 859-321-1341.
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Who can participate?
Fine artists/crafters who live or work in the general Lexington area may register their studio. Artists outside of the general Lexington/Fayette Co., area must partner with a hosting studio in Lexington. Inquire at 839-321-1341.
When is it held?
Open Studios Weekend will take place on Saturday, 1st November from 12-5pm and Sunday, 2nd November 12-5pm.
Where is it held?
Throughout the general Lexington area where participating artists' studios will be open for the weekend.
How can I participate as an artist?
Apply using the submission form
When is the deadline to register for the 2023 Open Studios Weekend?
The deadline for studio registration is October 6, 2025
Does my studio qualify/will I be accepted?
Open Studios Weekend provides exposure for all artists of all levels in their career.
Participation in the Open Studios Weekend is not juried.
How much does it cost to participate and have my studio promoted through the Open Studios Weekend?
The registration for Open Studios Weekend 2025 is FREE. The event is being sponsored by 250Lex.
Is there any different if I participate with a group of other artists?
Each artist receives equal publicity in the directory and marketing materials. Therefore, each artist must submit their own application even though it is free, otherwise they will not be listed in the directory or permitted to participate.
What do I need to do to complete the registration form?
Before you begin, make sure you have a high-quality image in jpeg format. This is the photograph that will best represent you and your work and appear with your directory listing. Make sure you complete the required fields on the form indicated with an asterisk. It's in your best interests to submit a quality image that truly showcases your style and standard of work.
What type of artwork image should I submit?
- Submit image for Open Studios Weekend promotional items/directory. Images of artwork should be a good representation of your work.
- The image you submit will be used in the directory and other Open Studios Weekend marketing materials and publicity efforts. It is your most visible marketing tool and the primary way visitors select which studios to visit.
- Be sure to choose an image that is high quality, clear, sharp and well-lit. Avoid showing frames, mats, stands, or anything other than your artwork.
- Images should not contain text or watermarks. Out-of-focus images may be rejected.
- Consider having your art photographed by a professional photographer.
- The format of the catalogue listing is square. We understand that most artwork is not square and recommend cropping your image to a detail of your painting, photograph or other 2D artwork. Focusing on details in 3D art also works, or you can allow enough space around your piece when photographing to be able to crop to square. Horizontal or vertical images may appear small than the square ones in the catalogue.
Can I apply in person or mail an application instead of online?
The application is online only. If you are having difficulties completing the form, ask a friend or a family member to help. Arts Connect can also help over the phone or may make an appointment to meet and complete the form with staff's help.
Why do I need to have a profile in the Open Studios Weekend Directory?
- The directory will include neighborhood maps and all studios will be grouped together in the Directory based on these recognized areas. This will provide comprehensive information and make studio profiles accessible.
- It is a successful marketing tool for you to use to reach customers and build your art business.
- Many potential galleries, customers and businesses will review the Open Studios Weekend Directory for purchasing art or having exhibitions.
- A link to your website will be included in your profile.
- A sample of the anticipated Open Studios Weekend Directory is shown below and taken from the last time this event was produced in 2021.
- The Directory from 2021 is here
- The Directory will be in 8 x 11 format with four listings to each page.
- Check out the photo galleries from 2019 and 2021.
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I would like to participate, but I don't have a space where the public can visit. Do you provide a location or can I show my work at a business?
Many artists share their space and visitors like to go to locations that feature multiple artists. Part of the point of Open Studios Weekend is for visitors to experience the artistic process therefore exhibiting work in a business or "gallery" type setting is not permitted. If you would like to find a studio where an artist is looking to share or if you are an artist wanting to share your studio, please let Arts Connect know and they will do their best to put the two parties together.
Do I have to demonstrate my artistic process?
Participating artists are not required to demonstrate. However, it is a way to connect and show the value of your work to Open Studios Weekend visitors. Actual demonstrations of your technique, storyboards, or showing a work-in-progress that you can discuss are all ways to show your process and create conversations.
What does Arts Connect Open Studios Weekend provide?
Do I need to be open both days of the Open Studios Weekend?
Artists are required to be open both Saturday and Sunday and for the full duration of 12-5pm.
Can I show reproductions of my work?
Yes, copies of your original art may be included in your display along with your original work. These items may include prints, tiles, greeting cards, etc. You may not display art from another artist not participating in your studio or any other items that weren't made by you.
How can I promote myself for the Open Studios Weekend?
Yes, in addition to your directory studio listing, participating artists are encouraged to use their social media outreach, but requested to promote the event as a whole rather than inferring your studio is the only one open - that it is their own Open House.
Of course promote your studio/work but within the context of the larger event in which you will be participating along with others. Please tag Arts Connect and 250Lex in any social media posts.
Reasons to Participate in Open Studios Weekend:
Many artists share their space and visitors like to go to locations that feature multiple artists. Part of the point of Open Studios Weekend is for visitors to experience the artistic process therefore exhibiting work in a business or "gallery" type setting is not permitted. If you would like to find a studio where an artist is looking to share or if you are an artist wanting to share your studio, please let Arts Connect know and they will do their best to put the two parties together.
Do I have to demonstrate my artistic process?
Participating artists are not required to demonstrate. However, it is a way to connect and show the value of your work to Open Studios Weekend visitors. Actual demonstrations of your technique, storyboards, or showing a work-in-progress that you can discuss are all ways to show your process and create conversations.
What does Arts Connect Open Studios Weekend provide?
- Advertisement listing for your studio in the full-color, print copies of the Open Studios Weekend Directory.
- Advertisement listing or your studio in the downloadable catalogs available on online.
- Arts Connect Open Studios Weekend advertising and publicity in local and regional publications/social media.
- Tour marketing materials including directional yard signs.
- Link to your website on your artist profile.
- Proceeds from your Open Studios Weekend sales are 100% yours with no commission to be paid.
- Discounted advertising rates in the Open Studios Directory
- Social Media coverage
- Signage
- Exposure to potenial clients and sales.
Do I need to be open both days of the Open Studios Weekend?
Artists are required to be open both Saturday and Sunday and for the full duration of 12-5pm.
Can I show reproductions of my work?
Yes, copies of your original art may be included in your display along with your original work. These items may include prints, tiles, greeting cards, etc. You may not display art from another artist not participating in your studio or any other items that weren't made by you.
How can I promote myself for the Open Studios Weekend?
Yes, in addition to your directory studio listing, participating artists are encouraged to use their social media outreach, but requested to promote the event as a whole rather than inferring your studio is the only one open - that it is their own Open House.
Of course promote your studio/work but within the context of the larger event in which you will be participating along with others. Please tag Arts Connect and 250Lex in any social media posts.
Reasons to Participate in Open Studios Weekend:
- Two days of commission-free sales opportunities
- Promote your artwork and services (i.e. workshops, classes, lectures etc.)
- Building relationships
- Help educate the public about the value of your artwork - and what time, training, tools and equipment go into producing quality original artwork
- Inclusion of your studio on the online Arts Connect Artists' Guide and Directory 2023
- Social media publicity through Arts Connect's database and network
- Develop new interest/collectors.
- Fun.
