Why You Should Go to Second Saturday at Sawyer Yards

Second Saturday Open Studio is a real Houston secret. I’ve been patronizing businesses and events in Sawyer Yards (The Silos, Silver Street, Spring Street Studios, and Winter Street Studios) for YEARS and I JUST made it to my first Second Saturday Open Studio—and it was amazing!

FYI This post is sponsored by the Market at Sawyer Yards, but all opinions and experiences are my own!

Second Saturday Open Studios

What is it you ask? MAGIC. No but really, it’s a super cool experience and activity to do once a month with friends, visiting family, or on a date.

Inside Luisa Duarte’s studio

Inside Verny Sanchez studio

On the Second Saturday of the month, the whole building opens up to the public (12-5 PM @ Winter, Silos, & Silver Street Studios; 2-7 PM @ Summer, Sabine, & Spring Street Studios) and artists play music, have food, and are present to chat about their art. I had a blast putting a name to the face of one of my favorite muralists Luisa Duarte, visiting a Verny Sanchez whom I met during HUE Mural Fest, and meeting many others along the way!

Wander through the maze of warehouses and discover an extensive selection of painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, clothing, textiles, printmaking, mixed media and more. The event is free and there is plenty of parking. Here’s a map: http://bit.ly/SawyerYardsMap

This conglomerate of warehouses continues to evolve as an art destination in Houston —you might know it by the giant “ART” sign off Sawyer designating the first ward as the Art District of Houston. Or the incredible, larger than life Rail to the Sea mural. Or if you’ve been a fan of any of our mural posts— the continually changing Washington Avenue Arts District mural collection painted on the side of the walls.

The Market at Sawyer Yards

Surrounded by the highest concentration of working artists in all of Texas, Second Saturday Open Studios coincides with the Market at Sawyer Yards, which is a curated craft market on Art Alley at Sawyer Yards with 60 exhibitors, live original music performances, food trucks, wine, beer and cocktails.

The Washington Avenue Arts District hosts this eclectic Saturday market produced by Mitch Cohen of First Saturday Arts Market. It’s open Second Saturdays year round 11AM-5PM and summer evenings. Find all the booths lined up between the “ART” sculpture and along the wall of murals.

The Market at Sawyer Yards debuted in the spring of 2016 and hosts a mix of artist mediums with a focus on folk art, the maker is the seller & artisan crafts including packaged specialty foods.

PLUS! During the summer dates (June 9, July 12, August 11), it’s a night market! You can shop and stroll 6 -10 PM. Mark your calendars for cooler temperatures and hot items!

With the influx of new businesses opening, the Washington Corridor is continuing to transform into a destination. After you’re done perusing the art, head to Holler Brewing for a beer or Local Pho for a bite to eat (highly recommend the vegetarian pho!). Or if you’re feeling particularly adventurous a climb at Momentum Climbing gym! Want more about the Washington Corridor Area? Check out our N ewsonian Guide for all our favorite spots!