Our vision for the BOP Open Studios was to present a top notch experience that connected participating local artists with art lovers and buyers from our area and further afield. We aimed to raise the profiles of local artists and at the same time, add our region to the map as an exciting arts destination. 2024 was our pilot year and our mission is to see BOP Open Studios becoming a 'not to be missed' feature on the annual Arts events calendar.

Taking place over 3 days in late February, the event stretched from Athenree to Pukehina. Studio doors were open across Tauranga, Mount Maunganui, Papamoa, Katikati, Te Puke and all the areas in between.

This was an opportunity to come and meet the artists in their favourite spaces - each as unique as the creators. Explore the workshops where dreams are hatched and the makers make things happen. Find out what makes each artist tick and what drives their practice. Discover how and why canvas, clay, textile or metal became the medium they pour their ideas, hearts and souls into. Most importantly view their fabulous work and get a chance to learn more about that special piece, it might just be the one that's been waiting for you.  

Our inaugural year has been a raging success and artists and visitors alike have been vocal in their excitement and praise. We aim to make BOP Open Studios a regular event and look forward to welcoming you back to our studios again in the future!