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.
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
Glynis Price
Evelyn Roberts
Staff Team
