Benicia Open Studios

Published: May, 2006

One of the Bay Area’s most diverse, vibrant and accessible Artists’ Open Studios takes place the weekend of May 6 & 7 in Benicia.

Benicia Artists’ Open Studios, in its 13th consecutive year, is free to the public and features over 75 studios and art venues open 10AM to 5PM.

Visitors may walk door-to-door to visit the live-work studios housed in the historic buildings of the Arsenal District. And don’t miss the recently installed public art piece Dona Benicia’s Mantilla Envelops the General’s Chair by nationally known sculptor Linda Fleming, at the south end of First Street.

The small waterfront town of Benicia, tucked between rolling foothills and the Carquinez Strait, boasts a thriving artists’ community. 

Regionally and nationally known artists invite guests into their studios to view original works, and some offer scheduled demonstrations. Arts Benicia’s printmaking studio/classroom is also open, with students demonstrating various printmaking techniques.

The Arts Benicia Gallery offers maps and a group exhibit including work of each participating artist, so visitors may plan an itinerary based on art they would most like to see. 

In addition, there are several studios located throughout the town and residential districts, including Benicia’s famous glass blowing studios, which will be featuring glass blowing demonstrations.