WELCOME TO AVA GALLERY AND ART CENTER
Fifty years of building creative community through the arts in the Upper Valley
You've Just Discovered One of the Region's Best Kept Secrets
AVA Gallery and Art Center is the cultural hub for the visual arts in the Upper Valley. For over 50 years we've served 61 communities across New Hampshire and Vermont as a catalyst dynamic arts programming, making the arts accessible for everyone—from working artists seeking support to underserved populations who might otherwise lack access to cultural opportunities.
AVA's 40,000sf. facility is composed of two buildings that house 19 artist studios, 5 light-filled exhibition spaces, an artist-run retail gallery, 4 teaching studios, 3 workshops for wood working, metal, and ceramics, and a visual resource library. Our grounds are home to a sculpture garden and an accessible "green roof" designed for pollinators.
What We Do
AVA builds creative community across five areas we call our 'palette' — the things we promise our community and our partners. Every day, every year. These are: cultural entrepreneurship, community inclusion, lifelong learning, health and well-being, and creative inspiration.
- Our cultural entrepreneurship initiatives help reduce the risks of being an artist and build livelihood supports — from lowering costs by creating access to shared spaces and tools, to income generation through shows and events.
- Community inclusion makes the benefits of creativity accessible to all — free community programs, tiered pricing, after hours and weekend events, affinity group activities — we're always looking for ways to make AVA a welcoming space for all.
- We focus on lifelong learning, recognizing that its never to early to pick up a brush or too late to throw a bowl — our classes and programs meet learners where they're at, and help you build on your skills year after year.
- Contributing to the health and well-being of Upper Valley residents is a priority — we offer programs that bring people together to occupy our hands and nourish our minds, helping to break social isolation and making the therapeutic benefits of creativity accessible for all.
- Our exhibitions offer creative inspiration for the culturally curious — a year-round, four seasons program of shows by more than 20 artists from across the Upper Valley. Sparking curiosity, connection, conversation, and inspiration.
Our Vision
Since 1973
AVA Gallery and Art Center serves its mission by maintaining powerful exhibitions, vibrant artist studios, and offering dynamic educational programming for artists of all ages and abilities. With an emphasis on building community, AVA also hosts and promotes special events that foster interaction between artists, patrons of the arts and the general public. All of our work is done with the priority of environmental sustainability and with the recognition that art enriches our lives.
Our Mission
As a catalyst for creativity, AVA cultivates an openness of space and mind to inspire, nurture, and showcase the artistic spirit.
Our Values
AVA Gallery and Art Center is committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive, and equitable environment for all persons who work, volunteer, or visit. We respect and value all persons–regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, or basis of disability. AVA is a place where creativity is celebrated, and community thrives.
Leadership
We listen to and learn from our community, addressing and mobilizing resources for the common good.
Equity
We strive for equity among artists, patrons of the arts and the general public through a variety of interactions and shared learning opportunities.
Inclusiveness
We champion inclusiveness in our community by honoring diverse backgrounds, voices and strengths in the visual arts.
Accountability
We hold ourselves to the highest standards of ethics, integrity, service and fiduciary responsibility.
Sustainability
We serve as stewards for our organization’s investments and honor the charitable intentions of our donors.
History of AVA
1973
The Barn
The Community Gallery opened its first exhibition in the rustic barn of Dr. and Mrs. Robert Nye in Norwich, VT with the occasion announced in the local Valley News newspaper on August 28, 1973.
1974
Egbert and Mayor Found AVA
Cofounders Emmabelle Egbert and Elizabeth (Lili) Mayor signed a lease for a shared space with Harris Business Machines on the lower level of 37 S. Main Street in Hanover, NH, where Community Gallery artists could exhibit year-round.
1975
Move to Allen Street
AVA had grown to 35 artists and relocated to the second floor of 3 Allen Street in Hanover, NH.
Members
Mackenzie Erdman
Andrew Faunce
Katherine Hart
Betsy Howard
Ann Malenka
Neely H. McNulty
Glynis Price
Evelyn Roberts
Staff Team
