Kyle here. 👋 Metropolitan Arts Council is celebrating 20 years of Greenville Open Studios — its premiere annual event for visual arts in our community — this weekend, Sat., Nov. 12 + Sun., Nov. 13.

Get the chance to visit 150 studios on a free, self-guided tour, make some new connections, and learn something new along the way. Keep reading to see each studio space + learn how to attend Open Studios like a pro.

Stop No. 2: Michael McDunn | Photo by GVLtoday

What we tried (with pricing):

I previewed five studios around Greenville, including:

Azniv Chorbadjian, a jeweler off Poinsett Highway
Michael McDunn, a woodworker off Rutherford Road
Laurie Buck at White Whale Studios, a painter off Smyth Street
Vivian Morris, a printmaker off Main Street
Carrie Creech, a ceramist off Garlington Road

You can visit as many or as few open studios as you want between Saturday + Sunday — it’s completely free to you. For true art lovers, don’t miss the preview night on Fri., Nov. 11 from 6-9 p.m.

Pro tip: Bring your wallet, as you may want to stock up on locally made gifts for the holidays.

What not to miss:

Download the Open Studios app before hitting the road to your first studio. You’ll have access to a map with every participating studio, a list of the artists, and other resources you may need along the way. Pro tip: You can customize your map based on your desired route.

150 studios right at your fingertips. | Photo by GVLtoday

What we’re still talking about:

I can’t get over how much unique talent I was able to see + interesting facts I was able to learn in just a few hours — from the history of White Whale Studio’s building from painter Laurie Buck to how certain types of wood compare to others from woodworker Michael McDunn. I also loved making new connections with these artists.

How you can experience this:

Before you visit your first studio, stop by MAC (16 Augusta St.) to pick up a printed catalog directory (including maps) or download the interactive app.

Bonus: If you stop by MAC, make sure to peep the annual 12 x 12 exhibit featuring a sampling of the works from Open Studios artists.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCnW80CNP-E

Things to know if you go:

Experience: Attend the 20th annual Greenville Open Studios
Price: Free
Website: greenvillearts.com/greenville-open-studios/
Address: Locations vary across Greenville, SC and surrounding Upstate areas
Hours:
- Friday Night Preview: Fri., Nov. 11, 6-9 p.m. (select artists only)
- Regular Open Studios hours: Sat., Nov. 12, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 13, 12-6 p.m.

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