York Open Studios (YOS) is an annual event held over two weekends where local artists open up their studios to the public. Instead of viewing art in a traditional gallery, you get to step directly into the spaces where it’s created – homes, workshops, and shared studios – making it a more personal and behind-the-scenes experience. It gives visitors the chance to talk to the artists, see the tools and techniques they use, and find out what inspires their work. Chair of YOS Chris Storrs tells us all about the event – and recommends how to make the most out of it.
Origins and Ethos
York Open Studios was established 24 years ago by York-based artists Anne Hutchison and Gail Fox, inspired by similar initiatives elsewhere in the UK. They wanted to create an opportunity for both artists and the public in York to celebrate the city’s creative talent. From the outset, they were committed to maintaining a high standard of work, introducing a selection process that remains central to the event today.
Growth and Artist Community
Since its launch in 2002 with just 19 participating artists, YOS has grown significantly, with around 150 artists now taking part each year. The event continues to attract new applicants annually, including final-year art students, reflecting the strength and vibrancy of York’s creative community. Over its 24-year history, more than 640 artists have been selected to participate, highlighting both the scale of the event and its ongoing role in supporting and showcasing artistic talent.
Impact on the City and the Artists
York Open Studios is a well-established fixture in the cultural calendar of York, attracting visitors not only from the city but from across the UK and abroad. This influx supports local businesses, while also encouraging exploration beyond York’s historic centre, reinforcing its reputation as a vibrant contemporary arts destination. For participating artists, YOS offers a valuable platform to showcase their work, sell directly without gallery commission, and connect with audiences. The event fosters a strong sense of community, which strengthens both the local economy and the sustainability of independent artistic practice.
How to Make the Most of YOS
Plan by area
Studios are located within a 10-mile radius of the city centre of York, so focusing on one geographical area at a time gives you time to properly explore each stop and makes the experience more relaxed and manageable.
Use the Directory and online tools
YOS produces a Directory with a map to help visitors plan their route. The website offers even more detail, including artist profiles, to help tailor your visit.
See a mix of artists
Visiting a range of disciplines – such as painting, ceramics, printmaking, and jewellery – makes each stop varied and full of discovery. There’s a great variety to discover, like the fabulous selection below:
Venue 11: Lenka Pavuk creates contemporary, nature-inspired functional pieces and mixed-media wall art alongside Paul Pavuk, a new artist this year, who focuses on macro and minimal photography, expressed through an abstract lens.
Venue 26: Clare Stringer, also a new artist this year, throws porcelain and then decorates it with a variety of mixed media taking inspiration from nature.
Venue 33: Anna Cook who works with muli-layered, hand-cut paper inspired by the natural world and its inhabitants
Venue 36: Nick Kobyluch will be showing both representational and abstract drawing as well as a wide variety of sketchbooks and preparatory work.
Venue 56: Nduka Omeife explores various watercolor techniques to capture nature’s essence, human forms, alongside outdoor scenes creating stunning portraits and nature paintings with depth and emotion.
Take time to engage
Talking to artists and learning about their process adds depth and makes each visit more memorable.
Stay open to discovery
Allow time for unplanned stops – these often become highlights of the day. A thoughtful, unhurried approach turns it into a rich and rewarding experience.
Images – Header: Nick Kobyluch, Left: Clare Stringer, Right: Nduka Omeife
