Explore Art & Creativity Every Month
Open Studios is a monthly celebration of creativity, community, and discovery held on the first Saturday of every month from 12–5 PM at Western Avenue Artist Studios & Lofts in Lowell, MA. Step inside and experience a rare, behind-the-scenes look into the creative process as you wander working studios, meet the artists, and take home original works of art. With nearly 400 creatives, Western Avenue bursts with variety: painters and photographers, sculptors and glassworkers, textile artists, ceramicists, costume designers, performance artists… and yes–even a circus aerialist!
Plan Your Visit
📍 Location: Western Avenue Artist Studios & Lofts, 122 & 160 Western Avenue, Lowell, MA
📅 When: First Saturday of Every Month, 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
☕ Arrive Early: Nibbāna Café opens at 9 AM; food truck arrives at 12 PM
🎟️ Admission: FREE
🚗 Parking: Free onsite lots & overflow lot with shuttle service
❓ More info: FAQ
A Dynamic Creative Hub
Home to nearly 400 artists across 300 studios and lofts, Western Avenue is one of the largest artist communities in the country—and the largest in New England. Our 265,000-square-foot campus is a vibrant hub of imagination and innovation, featuring a historic mill building filled with working studios and a separate live/work loft building that provides residential studio space. Together, these spaces create an unparalleled environment where creativity thrives every day of the week.
Partner Organizations Onsite
Loading Dock Gallery – A cooperative gallery & shop showcasing curated exhibitions
Taffeta Music Hall – A performance venue with live music and events
Lowell Makes – A community makerspace with workshops and collaborative tools
Refuge Art School – A nonprofit offering accessible art education for all ages
Nibbana Cafe – A cafe with coffee, pastries, and lunch items
What to Expect During Open Studios
- Five floors of working studios and two floors of live/work lofts to explore
- A behind-the-scenes experience where you can meet artists in their studios and purchase work directly from the makers.
- Wander the halls and discover an incredible diversity of artistic media.
- Live demonstrations, special installations, and rotating exhibitions at the Loading Dock Gallery
- An outdoor market (seasonal) with food trucks and local vendors
- Nibbāna Café (opens at 9 AM) for coffee, pastries, and lunch items
- Taffeta Music Hall hosting evening shows after Open Studios ends
Free admission and ample on-site parking
Open Studios FAQ
Is Open Studios free?
Yes! Admission is free for all visitors.
Do I need to register or get tickets?
No. Open Studios is a walk-in event — just show up and explore.
Where do I park?
We offer free on-site parking at Western Avenue. If lots are full, you can park at the nearby Stoklosa Middle School, where a free shuttle runs during Open Studios.
Can I buy art during Open Studios?
Yes! Most artists sell their work directly from their studios. Bring cash, cards, checks, or mobile payment options.
Are kids welcome?
Absolutely. Open Studios is family-friendly, and kids love exploring the creative spaces. Please be aware that these are real working artist studios. It’s the caregiver’s role to guide children in the presence of professional tools and artwork on challenging themes.
Is the building accessible?
Yes. The main Studios building is fully wheelchair accessible and elevators serve every floor. The first floor of the Lofts building is wheelchair accessible, and the second floor is accessed by stairs.
Can I bring my pet?
Yes, you can! Please remember that all pets must be leashed or contained when attending Open Studios.
What if I can’t make the first Saturday?
The best time to visit is during Open Studios when Western Avenue is bustling with activity, but you can always stop in and visit the building any day from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM to wander among the thousands of artworks on display.
Western Avenue also has exhibitions, classes, and events throughout the month. Check our Events Calendar for more.