Open Studio

Open Studio was founded in 1970 as an “open” space governed and supported by artists who wanted to continue their printmaking practice in an inclusive, communal setting. Printmaking requires specialized equipment, space, and expertise to manage complex chemical processes that demand specific health and safety measures. Open Studio was established as an Artist-Run Centre (ARC) to meet these needs, providing a studio space where artists can work using various print media techniques, including intaglio, lithography, relief, screenprinting, and more, with expert assistance as required.

Today, Open Studio is the only artist-run printmaking centre in Toronto that offers affordable, comprehensive access to printmaking facilities and related programs for local, national, and international artists. In addition to full-time post-secondary programs, Open Studio is the foremost organization in Toronto providing this range of facilities for printmaking artists. We continue to support artists through facility rentals, residencies, printing services, and art sales. We also offer the public opportunities to appreciate printmaking through our artistic programming and educational services.

Vision: To shape the exploration of print as essential, dynamic, and relevant to contemporary culture and creative thought.

Mandate: Open Studio is a non-profit Artist-Run Centre dedicated to contemporary printmaking. We offer accessible, inclusive, and affordable facilities, programs, and services for artists and the public from across Canada and abroad. Our primary goal is to support artists in creating and exhibiting contemporary prints within an open-minded, safe, and collaborative environment. We aim to promote printmaking by providing access to studio facilities, educational programs, residencies, exhibitions, and public art installations.