Brown County Back Roads Studio Tour

The Brown County Back Roads Studio Tour in Nashville, Indiana is a free, self-guided art event held throughout the entire month of October. It features working, juried artists and craftsmen who open their studios along scenic back roads for visitors to explore their creative processes, watch live demonstrations, and purchase unique handmade artworks directly from them. The event showcases a true representation of the rich arts community in Brown County, often referred to as the “Art Colony of the Midwest.”

The tour is accessible to all including those with handicapped needs, and runs every Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some studios also open Sundays. Visitors are encouraged to take their time driving or walking the roughly 20-mile scenic route on mostly paved roads and light dirt trails with gentle hills. The natural setting enhances the experience with beautiful fall foliage, pine-scented air, and views of forested hills and wildflowers.

The vibe is a blend of rustic wilderness and creative energy—studios range from pottery kilns full of warmth to paint-splattered lofts, each offering an intimate glimpse into an artist’s workspace and inspirations. Artists are welcoming and insightful, eager to share the stories behind their work and sometimes offering hands-on activities for participants.

The event highlights the harmony between art and nature, inviting visitors to connect with the environment and the artists’ craft. The tour is popular not only for the art but also for the chance to enjoy Brown County’s celebrated autumn colors and peaceful rural charm.

About the Area Surrounding the Event

Brown County is known for its wooded hills, rustic charm, and vibrant arts scene. Nashville, the county seat, is a quaint town with galleries, shops, and eateries that complement the studio tour. The roads wind through scenic forested areas, farms, and small communities, making the tour both an artistic and nature-rich excursion. Nearby attractions include the T.C. Steele State Historic Site, dedicated to one of Indiana’s most famous painters.

Summary of Activities and Schedule

• Studio Visits: 17 studios featuring 19 juried artisans including potters, painters, metalworkers, fiber artists, stained glass creators, and more.
• Live Demonstrations: Artists showcase their techniques including pottery throwing, metal repurposing, stained glass cutting, and weaving.
• Interactive Activities: Some studios offer opportunities to try art creation under artist guidance.
• Purchases: Art purchased directly from artists, with a wide range of media and price points.
• Tour Duration: Open Wednesdays through Sundays all in October, generally 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
• Scenic Drive/Walk: Approximately 20 miles circuit through back roads and light trails.
• Additional Local Events: Milkshake Happy Hour at Nashville Fudge Kitchen, group mountain bike rides, and other fall activities coincide with the tour.

History and Founding

The Brown County Back Roads Studio Tour is a longstanding tradition now celebrating over two decades (25+ years) of showcasing the region’s artistic heritage. It was established to expose the public to the depth and diversity of local craftsmanship and to foster direct connections between artists and their audiences. Over time, it has grown into a much-anticipated annual event that captures the creative spirit embedded in Brown County’s culture and landscape.

Notable Artists & Art Mediums (examples from recent years)

• Sandy Binder: Alpaca fiber apparel and home décor
• Brad Cox: Repurposed metal garden and home art
• Demaris Glazier: Stained glass and mosaics
• Julie Biddle, Martha Hall Bowman, Kathleen Chilcote among others in various mediums

Practical Tips

• Wear sturdy, supportive footwear for walking on mixed terrain.
• Bring cash or checkbook as some remote studios may lack internet for credit cards.
• Start early to maximize daylight and allow enough time for multiple studio visits.
• Pick up or download a tour map for guidance.

This event provides a unique, immersive experience where art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike can connect deeply with Brown County’s ongoing artistic legacy amidst turning leaves and peaceful backroads.