Featured artwork by Henriette Heiny.

Explore a Curator’s Pick Tour

2026 Tour

January 23–25, 2026

11AM–4PM Daily

Free, self-guided tour

160 artists
69 studio spaces
9 desert cities

A Fresh Way to Discover Art in the Coachella Valley

Curator’s Pick tours are thoughtfully assembled selections of artist studios, each chosen by a guest curator with a distinct creative eye. From bold abstraction to delicate ceramics, from process-driven practices to unexpected materials—each tour offers a unique perspective on the diverse and vibrant art being made across the Coachella Valley.

This Year's Curated Tours

Check back in October for the full list of curated tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Curator’s Pick Tour?

A Curator’s Pick is a self-guided mini-tour within Desert Open Studios, featuring 5–10 studios personally selected by a local curator. Each tour reflects a specific artistic perspective—like a focus on abstraction, mixed media, ceramics, or emerging voices—and invites you to explore the studios through a more curated lens.

Who are the curators?

Our curators are artists, collectors, educators, gallerists, and cultural leaders from across the Coachella Valley. Each brings their own creative eye and unique point of view to the tour they design. The full list of curators will be released in September.

Do I need to register or buy tickets to follow a tour?

Not at all. Curator’s Pick tours are free, open to all, and fully self-guided. Simply choose a tour that interests you, check out the map, and visit the studios at your own pace during the Desert Open Studios weekend.

How do I find the tours?

Tours are featured on our website with interactive maps and downloadable guides. You’ll also find printed postcards and signage at participating studios during the event.

Why should I follow a curated tour?

Curated tours offer a more focused experience. They can help you dive deeper into specific styles, materials, or processes—and introduce you to artists you might not find otherwise. Many featured studios are tucked away in home studios or lesser-known locations.

Can I do more than one tour?

Absolutely! Mix and match based on your interests. Each Curator’s Pick offers a different lens, so you can explore a range of creative voices throughout the weekend.

Will there be signage at the studios?

Yes—each studio featured in a Curator’s Pick tour will have special signage to let you know you’re in the right place. Some tours may also include printed postcards or “passport” stamps (if you're collecting stops along the way).

Where can I start?

Head over to the Curated Tours List to browse this year’s selections, meet the curators, and plan your own path through the Coachella Valley’s incredible creative spaces.