The city’s Arts Council will host its second Open Studios Evanston art walk in October, opening studios and galleries for free to the public to view artwork and enjoy live performances.

The purpose of the event, scheduled for Oct. 11, is to have more people view artists’ work, and to give people opportunities to meet artists and buy their work directly from them, said Lisa Degliantoni, co-chair of the city’s Arts Council.

“I volunteer on the Evanston Arts Council, so I know firsthand what a lot of artists need in terms of community support and engagement,” she said.

In June, the council hosted a similar event, which drew about 65 artists, in an attempt for Evanston community members to familiarize themselves with local artists. Artists sold about $5,000 worth of art at the event, Degliantoni said.

Open Studios Evanston organizers will provide a map of the different stops throughout the city, including the locations of live performances, demonstrations and talks on art collection. Each stop will highlight the developments happening in the city’s art community.

This event, which takes place during National Arts and Humanities Month, will act as an opportunity for artists to connect with each other and the community at large.

Participating business Bottle & Bottega will offer a free “painting party” for art walk guests to receive step-by-step instruction from artists on how to complete their own artwork.

“I’m just excited that it attracts more people into Evanston to see how vibrant and lively the art community is here,” owner Lynette Martin said.

Degliantoni said Northwestern students and faculty are being encouraged to participate in the event.

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