Mark Your Calendars for Virginia’s Studio Art Tours

If you’re interested in building or adding to your art collection, art tours are a wonderful way to check out a local art scene. They can be like moveable feasts, where perusing is encouraged and pressure to purchase is low-key. Unlike a gallery, artists are usually on hand to answer questions and schmooze with potential clients. They’re in nearly every season, so mark your calendars: 

Mathews: Made in Mathews Open Studio Tour
Tiny Mathews County is known for its dynamic art scene, and for two weekends in the late fall, a network of makers open their doors to showcase fine art, textiles, handmade furniture, crafts photography, sculpture, and more. Follow the self-guided trail, now in its 23rd year, and explore the artwork of the county’s makers among its hidden bays and rivers. Nov. 29–30, Dec. 1; Dec. 7–8. MadeInMathews.com

Charlottesville: Artisans Studio Tour
Artists working in a myriad of mediums are part of this Central Virginia tour, where visitors can meet the artists, explore their studios, and learn from demonstrations. From creators of ceramics, fiber, glass, metal, and wood, the self-guided tour showcases the work of creators in and around Charlottesville. Nov. 9–10. ArtisanStudioTour.com

Photo by Shari Jacobs

Roanoke: Open Studios Tour Roanoke
For a glimpse into the creative process, head to Roanoke in April, where local artists working in their studios are showcased. Each tour site features an eclectic range of mediums—from sculpture and painting to drawing, collage, assemblage, fiber, and more. April 26–27, 2025. OpenStudiosTourRoanoke.com

Floyd: 16 Hands Studio Tour
In the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, fine ceramists invite the public into their tranquil Southwest studios in this biannual tour. This enclave of craftsmen, profoundly drawn to the area by its beauty and tranquility, have solidified friendships and support over nearly three decades. Check website for spring ’25 dates. 16Hands.com 

Floyd’s 16 Hands Studio Tour features pottery by eight artists. From left: Josh Manning, Hona Knudsen, Seth Guzovsky, Andrea Denniston, Ron Sutterrer, Abby Reczek, Sarah McCarthy, and Wendy Wrenn Werstlein.

Loudoun: Western Loudoun Art & Studio Tour
Connect with painters, photographers, ceramists, and other visual artists at this immersive tour in Loudoun County. Watch these talented creators at work, and learn about their journey from concept to finished product. And enjoy the area’s stellar scenery and hospitality while you’re at it. June 6–8, 2025. WLAST.org

February 13, 2025

Eclipse: an Athenaeum Sculpture Invitational

Athenaeum
February 13, 2025

Valentine’s Day Dinner

Williamsburg Winery