Over 75 artists, creative spaces open their doors this weekend at Open Studios Penang

Open Studios Penang starts this Friday. — Picture by Open Studios Penang

By Opalyn Mok

First Published: Thursday, 15 Oct 2026 7:00 AM MYT

GEORGE TOWN, Oct 15 — If you’ve always wondered about the art processes and behind-the-scenes of artists’ studios, this weekend is the time to visit your favourite artist’s studio as they open their doors to the public during the Open Studios Penang.

Penang’s largest independent open studios festival is back for its sixth instalment for three days starting from tomorrow with the theme ‘It’s All A Surprise’.

Under this theme, visitors will get an inside look at the raw ideas, materials, conversations and unfinished edges of creative works before the artworks reach the gallery walls.

This year, more than 75 artists, creative spaces, workshops, performances and exhibitions will be held in cafes, heritage buildings, galleries, artists’ studios and community spaces spread across the island and for the first time, the mainland too.

This year also marks the first time the festival showcases more than visual art to encompass the spoken word, performing arts, a DJ set, storytelling and other creative practices.

“Open Studios Penang is about opening up more than artists’ studios. This year, that means more disciplines, more unexpected spaces and, for the first time, a move across the bridge to Bukit Mertajam,” said OSP chair Meghna Sharma.

She said the idea is to make art more accessible while strengthening Penang’s creative ecosystem.

Among the highlights this weekend is ‘Main Wayang’ — a cultural storytelling and immersive installation at the historic East Indies Mansion where artists Sharon Kow, Richard Bryan Sebastian and Esther Geh will also host a series of botanical art workshops.

There will also be a group exhibition featuring 11 artists working with botanical themes across painting, glass, photography, printmaking and more over at ‘Men With Plants IV’.

Across the bridge, over at Inkling Studio, visitors can go behind the scenes of the independent publicising house and check out the Risograph print studio.

Award-wining picture book creator and illustrator Ammi Leong is opening the doors of her private workspace to showcase her watercolour artwork while holding picture book workshops for interested participants.

The festival’s official opening is open to all at 7pm today at Hin Bus Depot while events are held at various locations throughout the weekend.