ArtSpan invites you to its 50th annual production of SF Open Studios. Since 1975, ArtSpan’s citywide SF Open Studios (SFOS) program has connected local artists to San Francisco’s residents and visitors. From September 19 through October 13, 2024, visit the creative spaces of local artists to see where the creation process happens, to purchase work directly from creators, and to be inspired by the creative power of the SF Bay Area.

ArtSpan’s SF Open Studios is a testament to the enduring power of art to bridge communities, and to the unyielding spirit of the artists who have been at the forefront of shaping San Francisco's cultural identity.

“We are incredibly proud to celebrate 50 years of SFOS, an event that has become a cornerstone of San Francisco’s cultural life,” says ArtSpan Executive Director Joen Madonna. “It is a testament to the enduring power of art to bring people together, inspire creativity, and support our local economy.”

This year’s historic SFOS production is preceded by a special exhibition, "From Disco Days to the Tech Craze: 50 Years of ArtSpan SF Open Studios," at the San Francisco Public Library’s Jewett Gallery (100 Larkin Street). Opening Thursday, September 12, this archival exhibition invites you to immerse yourself in the rich history of SF Open Studios and its evolution over the past half-century.

Artist-hosted open studio events are accompanied by the expansive SFOS Exhibition featuring hundreds of artworks at the SOMArts Cultural Center. The SFOS Exhibition invites visitors to view work in diverse mediums and to plan their weekend studio visits with the artists of the pieces that catch their eye. The SFOS Exhibition hosts a number of in-person events, including ArtLaunch, the SF Open Studios kick-off celebration, on September 19, and a collector event on October 2, 2024.

Artist Kay Weber. Photo by Lydia Daniller

Reflecting on his SF Open Studios participation over the decades, artist Kay Weber, says “As I look forward to celebrating my 30th year of participation alongside ArtSpan's 50th Anniversary in 2024, I reflect on the sense of belonging and creative fulfillment these experiences have afforded me. Through this journey, I have truly found a home in the art world of San Francisco.”

With a full lineup of events and celebrations, SF Open Studios promises to add a hefty dose of creativity to your fall. Discover these free offerings at artspan.org/sfos to begin or build your art collection while supporting active artists.

SF Open Studio Events

ArtLaunch
Thursday, September 19, 2024, 6-9PM*
SOMArts Cultural Center, 934 Brannan St, 94103
Click Here for Event Tickets & Information
*VIP hour 6-7PM

Artist-hosted SF Open Studios | Saturday & Sundays from 11AM-5PM
Weekend 1 (North): Sept. 21-22
Weekend 2 (Central/South): Sept. 28-29
Weekend 3 (East/Southeast): Oct. 5-6
Weekend 4 (Westside): Oct. 12-13

Art Tasting & The AMPLIFY Jurors’ Choice Awards
Wednesday, October 2, 2024, 6-8PM
SOMArts Cultural Center, 934 Brannan St, 94103
Click Here for Event Tickets & Information

About ArtSpan
ArtSpan evolved from SF Open Studios, begun in 1975 by a small group of enterprising artists who concurrently opened their studios to the public annually over one weekend to increase the accessibility of their work. Following the devastation of the 1989 earthquake, these artists created a strong organization to ensure SFOS would remain a San Francisco tradition, and in 1991, ArtSpan received its nonprofit, tax-exempt status. SFOS has grown exponentially; now spanning multiple weeks with over 800 participating artists and 100,000+ visitors.

ArtSpan continues to build a more resilient creative future with year-round artist-supporting programs advancing the creative careers of hundreds.

ArtSpan’s 50-year history is rooted in supporting artists through unprecedented times; from earthquakes to astronomical real estate surges, and variables beyond our control, we continue to adapt to serve our local creative community.

Click here for event tickets and information

artspan.org
[email protected]
(415) 861-9838

Main image: Kelsey Joy Photography