Want to be part of BOP Open Studios?

If you’re an artist living in the Tauranga City Council or Western Bay of Plenty District Council areas and you’d like to be involved in this exciting event, here’s everything you need to know:

Open Studio Dates

BOP Open Studios will run from Friday 21st to Sunday 23rd November 2025.
Participating artists must be able to commit to being open on all three days.

Artist Eligibility

We welcome applications from artists across a wide range of disciplines – including painters, sculptors, printmakers, potters, jewellers, textile artists, and more. To be eligible, you must:

  • Reside within the Tauranga City Council or Western Bay of Plenty District Council boundaries
  • Have a regular art practice
  • Create and exhibit original work

About Your Studio

Ideally, you’ll have your own studio space that’s safe, welcoming, and accessible to the public. While there’s no strict definition of what a studio must be, it’s important that your space reflects your working environment and creative process.

Please note: group exhibition spaces or gallery venues are not considered eligible. If you’re unsure whether your space qualifies, don’t hesitate to reach out before submitting your application.

Selection Process

All applications will be reviewed by our Art Committee. You’ll receive an email with the outcome of your application once the selection process is complete.

 Fees

The fee is $300 + GST, which comes to $345.00 including GST, per successful artist, not per studio.

This is a commission-free event. The registration fee for accepted artists covers inclusion in the studio trail, providing all associated benefits. Additionally, artists will be featured in a week-long art exhibition leading up to the trail’s opening, showcasing a piece from each BOP Open Studio Trail participant. All accepted artists will also receive website recognition for 12 months, including an image and business details. Furthermore, a selected piece of each artist’s work will be displayed during the Bay of Plenty Garden and Art Festival One-Year Out Launch.

Questions?

We’re here to help. If you have any questions about eligibility, your space, or the submission process, please email us at hollie@gardenandartfestival.co.nz

Application BOP Open Studios