Open Studios Programs
Since 1995, Open Studios has grown from producing an annual Studio Tour to encompassing additional programs and projects designed to raise awareness and appreciation of art and artists throughout the Boulder County community. Over the last 30 years, Open Studios has become the most comprehensive visual arts organization in the area.
These programs include:
Membership
Open Studios serves a membership base of more than 120 professional Boulder County artists each year. Juried members receive education and support to help them succeed in their artistic careers as well as the opportunity to participate in the annual Open Studios Tour, Gallery Boulder Junction, and other Open Studios programs. While membership for 2025/2026 is currently closed, interested artists should join the mailing list now to be notified when the next call for entry opens.
The Open Studios Tour
An exciting and educational three-weekend event held each October, the Open Studios Tour features artists in working studios throughout Boulder County. Upwards of 8,000 art lovers attend the Studio Tour each year, visiting more than 120 local visual artists to learn about artistic inspiration, mediums, techniques, and to purchase one-of-a-kind works of art for their own homes.
Plein Air Festival
Each summer, juried plein air artists from across the U.S. spend a week capturing beautiful Boulder County scenery in oil, acrylic, watercolor, and pastel. They compete for recognition, cash rewards, and the opportunity to sell the art they've produced during the festival week. The 2025 Plein Air Festival was held from May 31 through June 6, with an opening reception at The Armory Apartments Community Center on June 6.
Gallery Boulder Junction
Located at 3075 Pearl Parkway in Boulder, Open Studios’ permanent retail gallery features a rotating selection of the work of juried artist members. Open Wed-Sat from 11 a.m to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., you’ll find everything from greeting cards and jewelry to pottery and wall art. Gallery Boulder Junction is the best place to find a creative gift for a friend or yourself!
EdLinks
EdLinks (or Education Links) matches Boulder Valley and St. Vrain Valley School District K-12 art teachers with professional Boulder County artists for classroom instruction, special projects, presentations, and demonstrations at no cost to the school or educator. EdLinks funds artists’ time spent in the classroom –plus a stipend for art supplies– through grants and donations.
Mobile Art Lab
Look for the Open Studios Mobile Art Lab at Gallery Boulder Junction, farmers markets, festivals, and other events throughout Boulder County. Staffed by administrators and member artists, the Mobile Art Lab aims to encourage children, teens, and adults to tap into their creativity, explore artistic expression, and make a positive impact on their communities through the visual arts.