What is E.A.S.T? It's Austin's answer to our exploding arts scene and a way for everyone to get a taste of all the amazing creativity the Texas capital has. For two weekends, November 13th & 14th and 20th & 21st, you'll get to see artists who open up their art studios and allow visitors to see new work, see where artists create and meet and talk to the people who make this city so creative. Along with the studios, which open from 11:00am - 6:00pm, there are always events, happenings and programs that take place during the weeks surrounding the tour.
Every year the thought of having to figure out who to see is overwhelming, which is why we very much appreciate the efforts of the local organization Art Alliance Austin, which will host this year the Art Night Austin E.A.S.T. preview party of the "best of the best;" their choices for some must-see studios. Taking place on November 12th, you'll get to see artwork first and eat delicious Austin food offerings.
So why should you care about any of this if you don't live in Austin and can't attend the tour? Because as we mentioned, this is one of the best ways to see the awesome art that Austin has to offer. You'll be so up-to-date with the latest hip and creative art coming out of our city!
If you live in Austin, will you be attending the East Austin Studio Tour? Let us know--and tell us which studios you'll be making sure to visit!
(Photos: E.A.S.T. website; Debra Broz; Clarke Curtis and Glenda Kronke)
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Hey Austin! We do a similar program here in Philly called POST (philadelphia open studio tours) http://www.philaopenstudios.com/
Wish we could make it !
Definitely, we always go: I like that ceramic studio down by Town Lake (I forgot the name!) for x-mas gifts. And it's always inspiring to see where the amazing woodworkers from the Splinter Group make their stuff — though it will be many years before I can afford any of it. Also, this year, Cherie Weaver will be at Birdhouse, so we'll stop there for sure. The rest of the visits usually just line up serendipitously...
I just moved to Austin a month and a half ago and had no idea this was coming up! No idea which studios I'll hit up those weekends, but now that I know about it I'll definitely want to go. :)
This is my favorite Austin event. I go every year and usually buy at least one piece. One of my favorites is always Jeffrey Swanson. Can't wait to see what paintings he has this year!