Thursday, May 10, 2012

Somerville Open Studios

Written by Tracy McMahon

Somerville Open Studios is one of the largest art events held each year in the city of Somerville, MA located right outside Boston proper. Since 1999, this amazing, free event encourages artists to open their studios and homes to the public for a weekend allowing a true glimpse into the artist's world, where they create, how they create, and forging a strong connection between art lovers and the artists themselves.

This year over 400 artists participated. Trolley service was provided to various sites, studios, and homes around the city. Each space was clearly marked on a map and marked physically, with signage and balloons, allowing the public to easily identify participating artists.

Displays at The Burren Slam EventFor those artists not housed in larger studios or living spaces, like Brickbottom or Joy Street, those artisans whose homes are off the beaten path or otherwise not conducive to foot traffic, there was an option to participate at an event called Saturday Local Artists Market (SLAM) at The Burren in Davis Square.

Artists were invited to set up and display their work in the backroom of the popular Irish Pub. Here, the public found a vast array of vendors from jewelers to painters, potters, illustrators and beyond. It was a fantastic stop on the tour for great art, lunch, and a relaxing with a pint of the best Guinness in town.

Scene from The BurrenSLAM events are held a few times a year and often coincide nicely with larger art-based events like Somerville Open Studios and Art Beat. It is a fantastic opportunity to get involved in the local artists community.



The SLAM event, for me has been wonderful, as one who is just beginning to expand from my Etsy shop and dip my toe into local art fair circuit. The turnout has been fabulous, thanks to the great advertising, signage, and organization this year. Check out my display:

Trace Designs Display

For anyone visiting the Boston/ Somerville area I encourage you to check out the local arts community events around the area. It is a great way to explore the area while getting a sense of the true local flavor.

14 comments :

Designedbyval said...

Great display Tracy. Sounds like lots of fun.

willowcreekjewelry said...

Sounds like so much fun = )
I love events like this! Thank you for sharing!

Bob J24-7 said...

Excellent post ... Looks like a nice place to set up!

MadeByTammy said...

Very Cool Post!

Tracy said...

It was such a fun event!

Beadsme said...

I would love to come to the US and see how you guys do it.

TheSilverBear said...

Me too, BeadsMe - let's go together!
This is a super post, Trace - thanks so much for sharing!

SendingLoveGallery said...

wow that looks like fun! thanks for sharing, Trace - love your display!

Mollie Ann said...

Wow, what a wonderful post! Such a tempting event! Thanks for the info Trace, and go you!!!

Unknown said...

Sounds like a terrific idea. Your display is amazing! Love the lighted boxes.

LoveStoneArts said...

Your display is so nice and bright. What a wonderful event for you folks over on the right hand side of the country!! Thanks for sharing.

Brooke said...

Your display is great and this looks like a neat event!

YourDailyJewelsBLOG said...

Wish I was closer. It sounds like so much fun!

cooljewelrydesign said...

Thanks for sharing this Trace...I also wish I were nearby -- miss the Northeast in a HUGE way. The SLAM event is too cool for school.