What began as a simple idea—to bring artists together and invite the public into their creative worlds—has grown into one of the Coachella Valley’s most anticipated cultural events. This Weekend, Desert Open Studios: The Tour returns for its sixth season, transforming the valley into a living, breathing gallery.
Running January 23–25, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, the free, self-guided tour features 158 artists across 69 studio spaces in 10 desert cities, stretching from Desert Hot Springs to Indio. For three days only, painters, sculptors, photographers, mixed-media artists, and designers open the doors to their private studios—spaces rarely accessible to the public—offering an intimate look at how art is actually made.
Desert Open Studios was founded in 2020 by Coachella Valley artists Lynda Keeler, Anne Bedrick, and Kim Manfredi, alongside art supporter and executive director Chris Blades. Developed by artists for artists, the tour was designed to deepen the connection between creators and the community, turning art appreciation into a personal, face-to-face experience.
And that’s exactly what sets this event apart. Visitors don’t just view finished works on white walls—they observe creative processes in real time, watch live demonstrations, explore working studios, and engage directly with the artists themselves. It’s part open house, part cultural exchange, and part treasure hunt for collectors seeking original work straight from the source.
Studios range from intimate home spaces opened exclusively for the weekend to large, collaborative art centers that buzz with energy and conversation. Guests can plan their own route using printed or digital maps, and a complimentary 60-page Desert Open Studios Handbook is available at every stop, making it easy to tailor the experience around personal interests.
New for 2026, the tour introduces curated studio stops selected by local art and fashion tastemakers, spotlighting standout creatives and offering fresh perspectives on the valley’s evolving art scene.
Featured artwork this year includes pieces by Warner Graves, whose work reflects the bold, experimental spirit that has come to define the region’s creative identity.
More than just an art event, Desert Open Studios has become a signature celebration of the Coachella Valley’s cultural pulse—an invitation to slow down, explore, connect, and experience the desert through the eyes of the people shaping its artistic future.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual art lover, or simply curious, This Weekend offers a rare chance to step inside the valley’s most inspiring creative spaces—and leave with a story, a connection, or even a piece of art to call your own.
For more information visit: desertopenstudios.com
