September 14, 2026
Some of the best ways to experience art have very little to do with being an artist yourself. It might be discovering a new favorite piece at a local gallery, trying your hand at something creative, or spending an afternoon surrounded by people who share your curiosity. Whatever your interests or experience, getting involved in your local arts community can be easier than you think, and there are plenty of ways to make it part of your everyday life. Whether you're looking to try something new, meet people, or spend an afternoon surrounded by art, you can connect with creativity right where you live. 1. Visit a Local Gallery or Exhibition Art galleries are for everyone, whether you're a longtime art lover or visiting for the very first time. You don't need to understand every piece or have something insightful to say. Take your time, notice what catches your eye, and ask questions if you're curious. Many communities have galleries and art centers with free exhibitions open to the public. Here in the Upper Valley, AVA Gallery and Art Center is one place to discover artists, explore new perspectives, and experience the work being created in our region. 2. Try Something Creative There's something rewarding about making something with your hands, especially when there's no pressure to be good at it. Taking an art class or workshop is a chance to explore a new medium, learn from someone else, and maybe surprise yourself along the way. From painting and ceramics to woodworking and metalsmithing, you can get creative in countless ways. Look for classes at local art centers, community organizations, or studios. AVA offers opportunities for children, teens, and adults, with classes suited to a range of interests and experience levels. 3. Show Up for Local Artists One of the simplest ways to support your local arts community is to get involved. Attend an exhibition opening, visit an artist's studio, stop by an art market, or bring a friend to an artist talk. These events let you meet the people behind the work, hear their stories, and connect with others who share an interest in creativity. And don't underestimate the value of simply showing up - having people there to experience and appreciate their work means a great deal to artists! 4. Support the Arts in Ways That Work for You Supporting the arts doesn't always mean purchasing a piece of artwork, although that's certainly one wonderful way to do it. Becoming a member of a local arts organization, volunteering your time, donating , or sharing an artist's work with a friend can all make a difference. Community arts organizations like AVA rely on this support to keep offering exhibitions, educational programs, and opportunities for artists to share their work. 5. Make Art Part of Your Everyday Life Getting involved in the arts doesn't have to be a special occasion. It can be something you make room for regularly. Invite a friend to an exhibition, sign up for a class with your family, or make a habit of exploring creative spaces in your area. You might find that the conversations and connections you make are just as memorable as the art itself. We're fortunate to have a thriving creative community here in the Upper Valley, but communities everywhere have artists, makers, and creative spaces worth discovering. Wherever you live, you can likely get involved closer than you think. The arts are for everyone, and there's always room for one more person to join in!
