Marin Open Studios

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CLOSED NOW - Opens at 9:00am

THE HISTORY OF MOS reaches back to 1993 when painter Kay Carlson and sculptor Tim Rose founded MOS. Their goal was to create an event that would allow artists to be self-sufficient financially, in part by fostering local collectors interests. Philanthropist Peggy Haas pledged to assist the efforts as a partner, Molly Blauvelt joined, Marin Arts Council (MAC) endorsed the idea, and Town Center in Corte Madera offered gallery space for the exhibition, which accompanies the event. With a grassroots volunteer team, they produced the first MOS in 1994.In 1996 Carlson and Rose turned MOS over to MAC. Under Executive Director Jeanne Bogardus leadership with a consistent staff, MAC produced and ran MOS successfully for 15 years. By 2011 the Marin Arts Council was experiencing financial problems. A MOS revitalization committee of artists was formed and a new Board of Directors was elected. Unfortunately, it was too late to save MAC.Open Studios co-founder Kay Carlson, original supporter Peggy Haas, and Dorallen Davis stepped up to form a 7-person steering committee to make sure MOS would continue. They and Steering Committee members Bob Amos, Bruce Burtch, Dianne Hansen, Linda Larsen, and Alan Plisskin worked for months to make it happen.graciously continued hosting the exhibition with 270 artists. MOS 2012 was a roaring success. Over eight hundred art lovers enjoyed wine, music, art, and food generously donated by Marin restaurants at the Gala Preview. In its new incarnation run by grassroots founders and dedicated team, MOS 2013 and 2014 were two more successful years. Now, MOS 2015 22nd Year Anniversary) is ready to bring Marin Artists and the art loving public together once again.We are a small staff and rely on hard working volunteers. MOS is a year-round resource supporting artists community through cultural and educational programming. We celebrate our artists. Please help us keep this MOS alive and thriving for the next twenty two years!