Programs
East Austin Studio Tour
Stay tuned to our social media platforms and emails for the new guidelines for EAST 2020, coming soon!
Ryan Davis (EAST 2018 participant) / Photo by Vincent Roazzi Jr.
About
Big Medium’s East Austin Studio Tour (EAST) and West Austin Studio Tour (WEST) are free, annual, self-guided art events spanning two weekends in May and November. EAST and WEST provide opportunities for the public to meet the artists of Austin in their creative spaces. The mission of the East Austin Studio Tour and the West Austin Studio Tour is to provide an inclusive and accessible platform for a diverse group of artist’s to create, exhibit, and discuss their work; to increase the audience that experiences the artists work; and for that experience to create conversation and build relationships around art and the creative practice. EAST and WEST are not craft fairs or street festivals, and while sales are an important aspect of any artist’s career, they are not our primary focus. We believe an interconnected art community that supports each other will produce more impactful and sustainable benefits for everyone involved.
History
The East Austin Studio Tour was founded by artists Shea Little, Jana Swec and Joseph Phillips in 2003. The trio sought to raise visibility for the visual arts and artists in East Austin, thus East Austin Studio Tour was created to introduce the artists to the public and welcome the public to East Austin studios and creative spaces. The tour began with just 28 studios opening their doors, and the public met them with open arms. It became a tradition and then it became an institution. In fall 2018, 585 artists, galleries, and creative projects showcased work to over 50,000 visitors in two subsequent weekends in celebration of Austin arts and culture.
EAST BOUNDARIES
East of I-35
West of HWY 183
South of HWY 183
North of Riverside Dr