Being invited into an artist's studio is a privilege. Unlike galleries or museums, studios are working spaces—part workshop, part sanctuary, part creative laboratory. Whether you're attending an open studio event or have scored a private visit, understanding studio etiquette will help you be a respectful guest and get more out of the experience.
Before You Go
Do Your Research
Spend 10 minutes looking at the artist's work online before your visit. You don't need to be an expert, but basic familiarity shows respect and leads to better conversations.
Confirm the Details
For private visits, confirm time and address. Many studios are in industrial areas or unmarked buildings—get specific directions. Ask if there's anything you should know (door codes, parking, etc.).
Consider Your Timing
Artists often prefer studio visits in the afternoon. Morning might interrupt their most productive work hours. Be punctual—arriving late eats into their time; arriving early might catch them unprepared.
What to Wear
Studios can be dusty, painty, or cluttered. Wear:
- Comfortable shoes (you might be standing for a while)
- Clothes you don't mind getting slightly dirty
- Nothing overly formal—this isn't a gallery opening
During the Visit
Let the Artist Lead
Follow their cues about where to go and what to look at. Some artists have specific routes they like to take through their space; others prefer a more free-form visit.
Don't Touch (Unless Invited)
This is the cardinal rule. Never touch artwork, materials, or tools without explicit permission. Even finished-looking work might still be drying or fragile. If you want a closer look, ask.
Ask Thoughtful Questions
Good questions show genuine interest:
- "What are you working on currently?"
- "How did you develop this technique?"
- "What's your process for starting a new piece?"
- "How does this relate to your earlier work?"
Avoid:
- "How long did this take?" (Artists often find this reductive)
- "Is this for sale?" (Wait for this topic to come up naturally)
- Comparing them to other artists unsolicited
Be Present
Put your phone away unless you're asked to take photos or the artist encourages it. A studio visit is an intimate experience—give it your full attention.
Photos and Social Media
Always ask before photographing anything. Some artists are protective of works in progress; others welcome documentation. If they say yes, ask if you can share on social media and whether they'd like to be tagged.
Watch Your Space
Studios are often cramped and full of valuable or delicate items. Be aware of:
- Bags and coats that might knock things over
- Where you're stepping (wet paint on floors, canvases leaning against walls)
- Your gestures (enthusiastic hand-waving near sculptures = bad)
Talking About the Work
Be Honest, But Kind
You don't have to love everything. It's fine to be more enthusiastic about some pieces than others. But avoid negative commentary—this is their home turf.
Listen More Than You Talk
You're there to learn about their work, not to showcase your own knowledge. Ask questions, then let them answer fully.
Don't Offer Unsolicited Advice
Unless the artist specifically asks for feedback, keep suggestions to yourself. "You should try..." or "Have you considered..." can feel presumptuous.
The Business Side
If You're Interested in Buying
It's okay to express interest, but be respectful:
- Wait for a natural moment to bring it up
- Ask if the piece is available rather than assuming
- If they quote a price, don't haggle aggressively
- It's fine to say you need to think about it
If You're Not Buying
That's completely fine. Not every visit leads to a purchase. You can support the artist in other ways: following their work, recommending them to others, attending their shows.
Wrapping Up
- Don't overstay—be mindful of time, especially for private visits
- Thank them sincerely for their time
- Follow up with a brief thank-you message
- If you said you'd do something (share a contact, send information), actually do it
Open Studios vs. Private Visits
The vibe differs significantly:
Open Studios
- More casual, often with refreshments
- Artists expect lots of visitors
- Okay to pop in briefly
- Usually okay to photograph (but still ask)
- More sales-oriented atmosphere
Private Visits
- More intimate and focused
- Longer conversations expected
- Greater expectation of genuine interest
- More protective of works in progress
- May or may not involve sales discussion
Building Relationships
A studio visit can be the start of a long-term relationship with an artist:
- Follow up after the visit
- Attend their exhibitions
- Share their work when appropriate
- Check in periodically
- Be patient—relationships develop over time
Find open studio events in your city on our Event Calendar.