Open Art Studios Upper Harbour

For one weekend only, a series of normally private art studios across Auckland’s Upper Harbour will open their doors to the public, offering a rare behind-the-scenes look at how art is created.

Returning for its second year, Open Art Studios Upper Harbour takes place on Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 May 2026, inviting visitors inside the working spaces of local artists — from home studios and tucked-away creative hubs to established studio environments not usually accessible to the public.

Funded by the Upper Harbour Local Board, the expanded 2026 programme features nine studios and 20 artists, offering visitors the chance to move between spaces and experience a diverse range of practices, materials and artistic approaches.

From sculptors and painters to illustrators, ceramic artists and photographers, each studio offers a distinct experience — with artists on hand to share their process, demonstrate techniques and offer original works for purchase.

Studios are located across Greenhithe, Albany, Rosedale, Unsworth Heights and surrounding Upper Harbour suburbs, spanning everything from intimate home studios to shared creative environments.

Some of the participating artists this year, include:

• Ryan Mateo Art  (Albany Heights)- A self-taught wire sculptor inviting visitors into his home-based studio, where metal is shaped into expressive forms. Guests can watch the creative process, explore a range of hanging and table-mounted sculptures, and take part in hands-on wire weaving, with original works available to purchase.

• Barry Ross Smith (Greenhithe) - an oil painter creating surreal imagery of islands dotted with colonial villas and oversized birds. His works obliquely draw concern for our environment and the after effects of colonialism upon our native species. 

• Sarah Ward (Greenhithe) - an award-winning textile artist creating predominantly abstract quilts, known for bold and expressive works as well as more restrained palettes.

• The Freemanz Studio (Greenhithe), offering a glimpse into hyper-realistic pastel works in progress, revealing the precision and detail behind each piece.

• Mead Ceramics and Apollo Clay & Art – live pottery demonstrations across the weekend for all ages, with visitors also able to purchase handmade cups, bowls and everyday pieces directly from the artists.

Visitors can expect live demonstrations, artist conversations, and the opportunity to purchase work directly from the studio.

Event Details

What: Open Art Studios Upper Harbour

When: Saturday 9 & Sunday 10 May 2026, 10am–4pm

Where: Artist studios across the Upper Harbour area

Cost: FREE

Website: www.upperharbourarts.co.nz

Whether you’re an art collector, a lover of beautiful pieces or simply curious, this is a rare opportunity to step inside private studios and experience art at its source, and one not to be missed.

For more information, including the full list of artists, studio locations, and details on self-guided or van tours, visit: www.upperharbourarts.co.nz