Meet the artists behind the art

Whanganui Artists Open Studios is your chance to meet some of New Zealand’s leading and emerging artists, explore their studios and experience the creative process first hand. Better yet, you can acquire pieces for your collection direct from the artists themselves.

Held over two weekends every year in March, this event is not to be missed.

Please enjoy our website- view the studios and artists who participated in March 2019 - many of them are open year round which is indicated with the calendar icon on their profile pages.

Artists open their private studios giving you an opportunity to see them at work, whilst pop-up collectives let you see some of Whanganui’s heritage buildings used for creative purpose, along with galleries opening their doors and sharing their knowledge.

In 2019 there will be a variety of events and entertainment collaborating with Artist Open Studios so come and enjoy the best of what Whanganui has to offer!

Complete the form to download a free PDF of the Artist Open Studios Trail Guide for 2019.

Tēnā koutou katoa,

The Artists Open Studios Whanganui Trust proudly welcomes you to the biggest annual event on our region’s arts calendar. With over 70 studios and more than 200 participating artists working across a spectrum of mediums, the event is a showcase for the inspiring quality, diversity and depth of our visual arts community.

Artists Open Studios offers visitors a rare chance to peak behind the curtain of art-making, meet the artists, experience the creative process and take the opportunity to add to your art-collection. In addition to visiting studios, you will find information in this Guide for events and entertainment you can enjoy, and workshops you can participate in.

This year the Trust has introduced steps towards supporting the sustainability of the event, and to improve the experience for artists and visitors. These initiatives include retail of the events Trail Guide and the redevelopment of our website, hosting more information and interactivity than ever before.

Whether you are local, or from far-afield, we hope you enjoy the art, the people and the experience of our beautiful city.

Ngā mihi,

AOSW Trust

LEFT TO RIGHT: Rick Baum - Secretary. Des Warahi - Treasurer. Neil Buddle - Chair. Lyndsay Patterson - Trustee. Amanda Gibbons - Trustee. David Silvester - Design Director. Kat Wade - Event Coordinator.