I had more than 80 visitors in two days, substantial sales (best two day sales of my life) and now I have a list of emails so that I can notify patrons of my participation in shows, new work, etc.
Creating a Successful Studio Tour
Before getting ready for the event, determine what your expectations are. Keep in mind that you are growing your business and your recognition, and that you are creating future collectors.
FAQ's
I want to help with tour preparation. Whom do I contact?
We will be glad for you to help! Our event is 100% run by volunteers. Please contact Beth or Glenda, or call 864-804-6501 to sign up
How do I pay the $50 participation fee?
You may use a PayPal account, debit or credit card.
How do I communicate with the Open Door Committee?
All information, dates and notifications will be sent through email from “Open Doors Studio Tours” and will be posted on the website.
Do I have to provide a bathroom for guests?
No, you do not. It is your choice. We do ask that you prepare ahead of time and locate the nearest public restroom if you choose to have yours closed.
I have a really friendly pet. Do I have to lock it up during the tour?
For your pet’s sake, and for the sake of your guests, find a secure closed room in your home or off-site place for your animal during the tour.
Does the Open Doors group provide insurance coverage for my studio or guests for the tour weekend?
You must provide your own coverage. Open Doors Studio Tour Spartanburg is not held responsible for injury or damage to people, materials, property or art during the tour. Check with your personal insurance provider to make sure you have the proper coverage.
Am I required to attend meetings?
Open Doors will hold meetings for planning and promoting the tour from January through April. The only meeting that is ABSOLUTELY REQUIRED is the April meeting.
All participants are encouraged to attend every monthly meeting as they are highly beneficial to both the organization and the individual artists. Meetings will... [Read More]
Does my studio need to have access for people with disabilities?
No, it does not. However if you are accessible please make note of that on the application. We will mark in the catalog which studios are wheelchair accessible.
Is there a limit to how many artists can share a studio?
The limit is four, one host and three guest artists.
Can I show my work with another artist?
Yes. You can make arrangements with a participating artist to be a “guest artist” in their studio. Keep in mind that an integral part of the event is the ability for visitors to see the inside of a working studio. Are you able to set up a spot at the... [Read More]
Both my spouse and I are artists. Do we each have to pay the registration fee?
Yes and no. Each artist has a $50 fee unless one will be considered a guest and will ONLY be listed by name in the brochure.
My studio is not in Spartanburg County, but it is close to the boundary. Is this close enough to participate?
Sorry, we must abide by the county boundaries. Artists must live or have their studio space in Spartanburg County.
How much space will I get allotted in the catalog?
Individual juried artists who have paid the $50 fee will have equal representation in all marketing materials. Non-juried guest artists will be listed with their name only on the “host artists” page of the brochure.
Can I register for Open Doors Studio Tours on paper?
Registration is only available online at Open Door Studios.
Are galleries, businesses, organizations, etc., able to register for Open Studio Tours?
No. Open Doors Studio Tours is focused on individual artists creating work in studio/workplace spaces.
Where is Open Doors Studio Tours located?
Open Doors Studio Tours will take place in studios and creative workspaces across Spartanburg County.
Can I only show for one day?
No. If you are included in the tour, it is required that you personally must be at your studio during both days and stay open during all advertised hours. Artists must commit to be in their studios Saturday, April 22, 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. and Sunday, April 23, 12... [Read More]
Do I have to show my artistic process during the tour?
Yes. This is required and there are many ways to meet this standard. More will be explained about this in our info sessions.
If I register and then change my mind do I get a refund?
No. Once registration is closed, we immediately begin the production of the marketing materials. Making changes is time consuming and expensive, and we regret that no refunds will be issued.
How will studios be selected to participate in Open Doors?
Artists are selected by a Jury composed of a group of artists and established art professionals from the community.
Does it cost anything to participate in the Open Doors Studio Tour?
It is free to apply, and If you are accepted there is a $50 fee due December 1, 2022.
Who can apply to the Open Doors Studio Tour?
Any artist 18 and older, working in any visual media who lives in Spartanburg County. If you don’t have your own studio you could be included in a “host” artist’s studio.
How do I submit my artist statement?
1. Log in to your Open Doors dashboard.
2. Click on the Articles link in the left column of your dashboard.
3. Click on the article with your name as the title.
4. You can add both your artist statement and a description of your studio.... [Read More]
How will I benefit from participating in Open Doors?
Artists Benefits Include:
- Expanding your audience by sharing where and how you work.
- An opportunity to sell your work to the public and keep 100% of sales from your studio.
- Gaining exposure through Open Doors’ marketing.
- An artist directory will be published on the Open Doors website, including your... [Read More]