Q: Are the rules the same as in 2025?
A: There are two major changes since 2025. Firstly we have added a rule prohibiting AI generated artwork. Secondly artists wishing to share a studio must now submit a single application using the registration category “Studio with two artists”.
Q: What is the difference between a shared studio, a studio collective and a gallery?
A: A shared studio is a space where two artists both want to show their work in the tour. In past years both artists would complete a separate application form. For 2026 they must submit a single application using the registration category “Studio with two artists”.
A studio collective is a creative space which three or more artists use as their creative space, but may live elsewhere. All the artists in the collective are required to fulfill all participant obligations for the tour including being able to demonstrate their creative process.
A gallery is a space that exhibits the work of multiple artists and its principal business is selling that art. It is open to the public with regular business hours. They do not have a studio space. Galleries as part of the Washington County Open Studios Tour primarily support local artists and are required to fulfill all participant obligations for the tour, including offering demonstrations. If your studio is a hybrid of these creative spaces that we have defined for the Open Studio Tour, please use the contact form and the Board will let you know which version best fits you.
Q: I see that there is a limit of 50 registrations that will be approved. Why is this?
A: In the past we have sometimes accepted more registrations but beyond a certain number it is not possible to run the tour as well as we could with 50 or less. The total number of studios participating impacts many things such as space available for each artist in the map guide and the volunteer effort required to support the artists via the website, photos, signage, etc.
Q: What is the largest number of studios and galleries that we have had in the past?
A: 50 is the most, so it is quite possible that there will be enough room for everyone who applies.
Q: If there are more than 50 applicants how will you decide who gets approved?
A: This process needs to happen quickly so we will not attempt to do a formal jury process. These are some of the rules that we plan to follow.
- The 25 or so volunteers including unpaid board members who have been keeping this organization running will automatically be accepted.
- Submitting low resolution or incorrectly named photos will lower your chances of being accepted. Not responding to email could also hurt your chances.
- Priority will be given to those registrations which have multiple artists, including galleries, collectives and two person studios.
- The order in which artists submit a complete application including acceptable photos will also factor into the decision. For this reason you are advised to not delay in sending in your photos.
- The decisions of the board will be final.
Q: Do I lose my application fee if I am not accepted?
A: There is no application fee, artists only pay once they have been accepted.
Q: How much space will I get allotted in the catalog?
A: We will be using a folding map guide, similar to what we had in 2025, there is an area 1 x 3 inches per artist.
Q: I live in Multnomah County but my studio is in Washington County. Can I still be in the Washington County Open Studios tour?
A: Yes, you can! The studio location is the essential element.
Q; My studio is not in Washington County, but it is just blocks away from the boundary. Is this close enough to participate?
A: Sorry, we must abide by the county boundaries. If you are interested in an Open Studio venue, many adjoining counties also host them.
Q: Both my spouse and I are artists sharing a studio. Do we each have to pay the registration fee?
A: You will pay a single registration fee of $200.
Q: How do I pay the registration fee?
A: We use Square to securely collect payments online. Once your application is approved we will send you an email with the link to our secure payment page which accepts all major credit cards. If paying online is a problem for you please use out contact form to contact us.
Q: Can I show my work with another artist?
A: Can you demonstrate not just what you do but HOW you do it? If so the answer is yes. If you are still not sure, please use our contact form so the WCAA Board can make a decision.
If opening your own space feels unsafe or intrusive, then you mighty consider asking if another artist could host you in a shared studio or studio collective.
Q: Does my studio need to have access for people with disabilities?
A: No, it does not. That being said, we work to include everyone in the tour, and will note in the map guide which studios are wheelchair accessible.
Q: Can I only show on one day?
A: If you sign up for the tour, you must plan to be at your studio during both days and all open hours. Unforeseen health related reasons such as testing positive for COVID can of course cause that to change.
Q: Do I have to be demonstrating my process during the tour?
A: This is required. Some artists schedule and advertise times that they will be doing a demo, and some are prepared for more spontaneous demonstrations based on conversations they are holding with guests. There are many ways to meet this standard.
Q: Am I required to attend meetings?
A: WCAA holds monthly meetings for planning and promoting the tour from May through Augustr. Meetings are held at various locations and are usually on the 3rd Sunday of the month. You are encouraged but not required to attend monthly meeting as they are highly beneficial to both the organization and the individual artists. Artists are responsible to keep up to date on the preparation process.
Q: I want to help with tour preparation. Whom do I contact?
A: We are so glad you are offering to help! Our organization is 100% run by volunteers like you. There is a place on the registration form where you can tell us your area of interest, and the Volunteer Chair will contact you.
Q: Does the Washington County Art Alliance provide insurance coverage for my studio or guests for the tour weekend?
A: You must provide your own coverage. WCAA is not responsible for injury or damage to people, materials, property or art during the tour. Check with your personal insurance provider to make sure you have the proper coverage.
Q: I have a really friendly dog. Do I have to lock him up during the tour?
A: Any dog of any size should be removed from harm’s way. Even dog-loving guests do not like to be barked at, jumped upon, licked, sniffed or otherwise greeted when they come to visit. For your dog’s sake and for the sake of your guests, find an off-site place for your dog during the tour. Visitors may be allergic to cats so you you should also keep your cats out of the studio area.
Q: Do I have to provide a bathroom for guests?
A: No, you do not. It is your choice. We do ask that you prepare ahead of time and locate the nearest public restroom if you choose to have yours closed.
Q: If I register and then change my mind about being in the tour, do I get a refund?
A: Only up until May 1st after which time we start the catalog preparation process. Making changes after that time is time consuming and expensive, and no refunds will be issued.
Q: If I have dropped out of the tour and received a refund can I change my mind and join the tour again?
A: You will have to wait until next year’s tour if you want to register again.
Q: I have friends/students that like to come over and make art with me. Can I invite them to sell their work too?
A: If you register as a studio with one artist then only you can show and sell your work. If you are registering as a collective you can invite your friends but they should be prepared to demonstrate their work.