Fitchburg Open Studios Returns This October

By Tamar Russell Brown

Artists across Fitchburg and surrounding communities will open their doors to the public this fall as Fitchburg Open Studios returns Oct. 17-18 for its eighth annual self-guided arts tour. The free event offers visitors an opportunity to explore working studios, meet local artists and experience the region’s creative community firsthand.

Organized by the Fitchburg Cultural Alliance, Fitchburg Open Studios showcases artists and arts organizations throughout Fitchburg and neighboring communities. Visitors can travel at their own pace, choosing which locations to visit throughout the weekend. Participating artists will share their workspaces, discuss their creative processes and, in many cases, offer artwork for sale.

FCA President and assistant professor of photography at Fitchburg State University, J. Flynn says, “The FCA is thrilled to bring this event back to the region. We are committed to the local cultural economy via our Main Street Studios in downtown Fitchburg and this event spotlights the rich cultural and artistic diversity in the City and surrounding region. We look forward to inviting the public to visit us and all the participating locations and artists in October.”

The event provides a behind-the-scenes look at how art is made and gives visitors a chance to engage directly with painters, sculptors, photographers, fiber artists and other creative professionals. Demonstrations and informal conversations allow guests to learn more about artistic techniques, inspiration and the role of art in the community.

This year’s tour includes a variety of locations, including Fitchburg Art Museum, Main Street Studios, Fitchburg Arts Community, Boulder Art Gallery, CANVAS by Coff33 Corp and the Fitchburg Historical Society. Additional participating venues include Creative Connections Gift Shop and Gallery and New Dawn Arts Center in Ashburnham.

Since its founding, Fitchburg Open Studios has helped strengthen connections between artists and the public while highlighting the growing arts and cultural scene in North Central Massachusetts.The event encourages residents and visitors alike to discover the talent working throughout the region and explore the creative spaces that are often hidden from public view.

Held during the height of New England’s fall foliage season, the tour combines art, community and autumn scenery, making it a popular weekend destination for collectors, families and anyone interested in the creative arts. Visitors can choose a single location or spend the weekend exploring multiple studios and galleries throughout the region.

The FOS Committee thanks Fitchburg State University for printing this year’s tour map. Copies will be distributed to downtown Fitchburg businesses.

Fitchburg Open Studios will be open from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, and Sunday, Oct. 18. Admission is free. Additional information, participating artists and tour maps are available through the Fitchburg Open Studios website fitchburgopenstudios.com.

Businesses

01. Art On the Rocks
875 Merriam Ave., Twin City Plaza #123
Fitchburg, MA 01420
978-400-5749
artontherocksma.com

02. Boulder Art Gallery
960 Main St., Fitchburg, MA 01420
978-345-7000
boulderartgallery.com

03. Creative Connections
56 Main St., Ashburnham, MA 01430
978-827-6211
ccgiftgallery.com

Organizations

04. CANVAS by CoFF33 Corp.
326 Main St., Fitchburg, MA 01420
coff33corp.org

05. Fitchburg Art Museum
185 Elm St., Fitchburg, MA 01420
978-345-4207
fitchburgartmuseum.org

06. Fitchburg Arts Community
Pop-Up Location
62 Academy St., Fitchburg, MA 01420
fitchburgarts.com

07. Main Street Studios
Pop-Up Location
569 Main St., Fitchburg, MA 01420
fitchburgculturalalliance.org

08. New Dawn Arts Center
84 Main St., Ashburnham, MA 01430
Newdawnarts.org

Featured Artists: