The annual Open Studios event across coastal and hinterland communities, featuring more than 70 artists over two weekends, commences May 20. 

Open Studios Sunshine Coast is an initiative of Arts Connect and aims to connect local artists with their community. 

The free, family-friendly event showcases the work of established and emerging artists from a wide variety of creative backgrounds including ceramicists, woodworkers, painters, and glass artisans. 

“We are thrilled to highlight the abundant artistic talent that resides within the Sunshine Coast region,” said Arts Connect President Evelyn Joy. 

“Our Open Studio events are about building a deeper connection with our local artists so we can expose them and their work to the broadest possible community.

“The event caters to a range of different interests, our self-guided tours take you into the world of the artist where you can see how they go about their work and there’s also the option to participate in various creative workshops run by the artist themselves.

“Much of the artwork is for sale and we encourage visitors to consider buying a piece of art to support local artists, many of these artists have endured struggles during and after Covid so they will certainly appreciate the exposure,” Evelyn said. 

“This year we have introduced a YouTube series that includes interviews with  local artists to give attendees an inside look into the artists’ world from the comfort of their own home.”

• The opening weekend kicks off with a launch event at local distillery Sunshine and Sons in Woombye. To book an event workshop or to find out more about the Open Studios Sunshine Coast event visit the website: www.openstudiossunshinecoast.com.au.