Ads loves to throw around words such as “new and improved,” “better” and “more for your money.” With the Open Studio Weekend (OSW), those words actually mean something. 2017 events start with the launch party and juried OSW artists’ exhibition opening during the Nov. 3 Republic Bank First Friday Hop from 6-8 p.m. at the Cressman Center for Visual Arts, 100 E. Main St. (the show is up through Nov. 25). On Saturday, Nov. 4, and Sunday, Nov. 5, over 120 artists will let visitors into their inner sanctum. Expect to see artists new to the OSW, as well as old friends. Tickets come with a 50-page directory; for an interactive map, download the new “Louisville Open Studio” app. Also new this year is the LouVelo OSW Bike Ride Kick-Off on Saturday at noon at Hyland Glass, 721 E. Washington St. OSW raises funds for UofL’s Mary Spencer Nay Scholarships and LVA’s Children’s Fine Art Classes.