Melville’s artists will throw open the doors to their homes and studios and welcome in the public as Melville Open Studios returns on Saturday, 2 May and Sunday, 3 May 2026, from 10.00am to 4.00pm, across the City of Melville.
Now in its ninth year, the 2026 program is shaping up to be the biggest yet, with more artists taking part and more home studios opening than ever before.
Following a standout 2025 event, which attracted an estimated 5,000 visitors and generated more than $100,000 in commission‑free sales for artists, the 2026 edition welcomes even more artists, including a growing number taking part for the first time.
Increased sponsorship support has also enabled further investment in artist participation and audience access.
In line with the City of Melville’s commitment to inclusive cultural experiences, Melville Open Studios invites visitors into the private working spaces of artists to view works in progress and purchase one‑of‑a‑kind pieces directly from the makers themselves.
Spanning a diverse range of disciplines, including ceramics, painting, printmaking, floristry, mixed media, textile and more, Melville Open Studios offers a rare opportunity to gain first‑hand insight into creative practice across the City.
City of Melville Mayor Katy Mair said the City is excited to highlight the growing community of talented artists at home in Melville.
“Melville Open Studios offers a unique opportunity for the community to connect directly with the artists who live and work in our City, and to experience creativity in its most authentic setting.”
“The City of Melville continues to invest in arts and culture because of the important role it plays in building connected communities and supporting a thriving local creative economy.
“Melville Open Studios is a powerful reflection of the creativity flourishing across our City.”
Visitors are invited to explore artists within their home studios as well as the key artist hubs at Atwell House, Goolugatup Heathcote, Applecross Art Gallery & Framing, and Feld & Co.
Several new venues join the program this year, including the new Home-Hub 2 in Melville.
Myaree Ceramics will also participate as a key hub in 2026, presenting a gallery‑style setup with five artists exhibition work in situ, as well as a home-styling masterclass.
Highlights to this year’s line-up of participating artists include ceramicist Tessa Smith of Any Clay Pottery Studio, who will showcase her whimsical handmade homewares. Sisters Cecilia McMillen and Jessica Stevens of Amalgam Floral will take part for the first time, sharing their long-lasting native and botanical designs.
Whilst mixed-media multidisciplinary artist Kane Hermens of Just Kane will present his nostalgia‑driven work spanning murals, canvases and wearable design.
Melville Open Studios Coordinator Jennifer Gaye has worked closely with Melville’s creative community to shape the 2026 event, developing a studio trail rich in artistic experiences, distinctive makers and opportunities to support local talent.
“Melville Open Studios is an exciting weekend where Melville’s professional and emerging artists are invited to share their usually private working spaces with the public,” said Ms Gaye.
“We are delighted to welcome several artists taking part in the event for the first time, alongside many returning favourites.
Across the weekend, visitors can see creativity in action, speak directly with artists, and gain insight into the ideas, processes and inspiration behind their work.
“Melville Open Studios connects artists directly with the public in an authentic and personal way. The ability to engage with visitors and sell work without gallery commissions is an incredible opportunity for our local artists.”
Guided bus tours return with expanded capacity, increasing from four routes in 2025 to six routes in 2026, making it easier for visitors to travel between studios and hubs. Bus tickets are $10 per seat, with sales opening at the end of March.
Melville Open Studios will run from 10.00am to 4.00pm, Saturday, 2 May and Sunday, 3 May, across the City of Melville.
For more information, including a full program and map, visit www.melvilleopenstudios.com