OPEN STUDIOS
Nov 9th & 10th 2024
About the Shoreline ArtsTrail
The Shoreline ArtsTrail was started in 2001 by a small group of shoreline artists. Their intent was to create an annual open studios event to allow local residents and weekend visitors to interact with artists and experience the creative process first-hand. The seeds were planted and began to grow.
Three years later, grants from the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism and from the towns of Branford, Guilford, and Madison, dramatically accelerated the project. The number of artists almost doubled, as did the types of media, which now includes jewelry, sculpture, fiber, paint, glass, pottery, metal, and textiles. With the invaluable support of the Guilford Art Center, the vigorous group of Open Studio artists morphed into a year-long Shoreline ArtsTrail. The combined efforts of all parties led to the ArtsTrail receiving the Compass Award for Excellence in Partnership in 2007 from the Greater New Haven Visitors' Bureau.
The Shoreline ArtsTrail and Open Studios Weekend is a great way to explore the shoreline’s arts community. Each year, more than 40 artists from the towns of Branford, Guilford, and Madison work together to present a two-day Open Studios event in November. It is truly a collaborative effort that includes lots of volunteer hours from member artists, a newly fostered partnership with the Shoreline Arts Alliance, and the support of numerous community sponsors.
Visitors may enjoy refreshments while they watch demonstrations and ask questions, meet the artists one-on-one and explore their studios, see new and amazing art, get a head start on holiday shopping, and much more!
During Open Studios Weekend, the colorful “Open Studio” signs point visitors to all of these artists and studios.
Support Local Artists
The Shoreline ArtsTrail offers an opportunity to visit the private studios of artists in Branford, Guilford, and Madison, Connecticut. It's a great way to spend the weekend: meet the artists, explore their work spaces, see amazing art. Open Studios Weekend is free and open to the public!
Support Our Sponsors!
The Shoreline ArtsTrail is a collaboration with the Guilford Art Center, and is supported by a number of local Sponsors. These local businesses understand the importance of art and artists to our economy and to our communities. We hope you'll support them in return!
Many of these sponsors offer discounts and promotions during Open Studios Weekend, too!
Visit anytime!
Many artists are available year-round and welcome visitors. Some studios are open regular hours, others by appointment. Let the artists bring your ideas to life with special commissions. View the Artist List for individual artists' contact information.