Artists across Milwaukee County are throwing open their studio doors for free on October 3 and 4, giving visitors a look at how artworks get made. The annual MKE Studio Tour spans host spaces, including newcomers welcoming the public for the first time.
The self-guided event costs nothing to attend. Visitors can browse an online tour map at mkestudiotour.com to plan routes past studios showcasing fiber art, jewelry, ceramics and paintings. Working studio visits give art lovers a behind-the-scenes look at artists' tools, techniques and works in progress rather than just finished pieces on a gallery wall.
New Stops Stretch From Bay View to Fox Point
This year's roster adds several fresh addresses to the route. New host studios include Coria Graphic Arts and AMW Sculpture Studio, both in Milwaukee, alongside Sasi Chambers in Bay View and Sable Squirrel Studio in Fox Point, according to the MKE Studio Tour. Host studios typically open their working spaces to the public. The tour also includes guest artists, adding to the range of work visitors can see.
Guest artists join host studios on this year's tour, adding to the range of work visitors can see in working spaces.
A Potter's Three Decades and a Nonprofit's Century-Old Roots
Featured tour artist Jean Wells has worked as a ceramic potter for more than 30 years. Kate Marotz was Wisconsin Craft's president in 2025, according to Artdose Magazine. Her studio, Jean's Clay Studio, is part of the tour.
Wisconsin Craft itself carries a long institutional history: the 501(c)(3) nonprofit traces its origins to 1916, when it began as the Wisconsin Society of Applied Arts. It later operated for nearly 40 years as the Wisconsin Designer Crafts Council before adopting its current name in 2021, Artdose reports. Beyond the fall studio tour, the organization also hosts Morning Glory Art Fair, a signature event.
Artists Meet Visitors in Their Working Spaces
The MKE Studio Tour connects artists and visitors in working spaces, where visitors can meet artists and shop handcrafted work.
The tour offers free admission and a chance to visit artists in their working spaces across Milwaukee County.
The Ripple Effect on Milwaukee's Neighborhoods
The tour takes visitors to studios across Milwaukee County.
The tour offers a free, self-guided way for visitors to connect with local artists and see their work in progress.
