Artspace brings Raleigh visitors closer to the work behind an artwork
Galleries and working studios offer different perspectives on the creative process at the downtown arts center.
Image: AI-generated illustrative photograph of generic printmaking materials; not Artspace studios, a resident artist's work or available class supplies.
A finished artwork hides many of the decisions that produced it. Artspace in downtown Raleigh offers another way to approach art: through exhibitions and a building of working studios where materials, experiments and individual practices can become part of the conversation.
The nonprofit at 201 East Davie Street lists more than twenty-five artist studios, with media including painting, jewelry, printmaking, fibers and mixed media. Its visitor map identifies current studio artists and residents. For a particular artist, arrange an appointment directly rather than assuming everyone will be working during every public hour.
Admission is free, with donations welcomed. Public hours are Thursday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–7 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m.–4 p.m.; First Friday extends to 10 p.m. Check the closure calendar: November 12–15, 2026 is reserved for Art Bash preparations and activity rather than normal public access.
Ask before entering a workspace, touching materials or photographing work. A specific question about a process is often a better opening than asking what an entire piece means. The building provides elevator access to both floors and publishes accessibility resources. Leave time for a gallery as well as a studio, so the making and the finished work can inform each other.
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