This weekend (April 27-28), Newton Open Studios (NOS) will highlight the city’s thriving arts scene as 33 venues — homes, studios, and group locations — host the works of more than 130 creators. Venues are generally open 11AM-5PM both days. Each venue will be marked by printed signs with red balloons. Where possible, NOS encourages visitors to use bicycles and carpooling to travel among venues.
Now in its 28th year, the event will feature an array of seasoned exhibitors and emerging talents, according to NOS director Claudia Fiks. In addition to the indoor displays, there will be an outdoor venue called, Art In and Out of the Villa.
Fig City News asked Fiks for more details about what visitors can expect as they visit homes, studios, and group sites around Newton.
Can you tell us about the outdoor venue called, Art In and Out of the Villa?
[“Art In and Out of the Villa,” features] outdoor sculptures and site-specific installations. The Villa, located in West Newton, brings 12 artists exhibiting paintings, glass, wood, and sculptures, blending in with the manicured and beautiful garden for visitors to explore and enjoy.What types of work/media will be featured? What else is new this year?
The event showcases a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums, encompassing paintings, photographs, and fine and contemporary crafts like textiles, works on paper, fiber art, jewelry, ceramics, woodworking, and glass in 2D and 3D forms.
This year, we are introducing a performing art piece to NOS. At 320 Nevada Street, Karen Bray will be performing four times so visitors can attend the performance and visit the artists in [that] location.
What makes the city such an important place for the arts?
The Newton community has a rich history as a hub for numerous artists, some of whom have artworks featured in both local and international museums, while others have received significant commissions worldwide.
Furthermore, the local school system offers exceptional art education experiences led by outstanding teachers, including notable figures such as Newton North art teacher Shannon Slattery, who is exhibiting at NOS this year at The Villa.
Why do you think people should go to NOS?
NOS is a community-focused event that nurtures a sense of belonging and active neighborhood engagement. It is vital in enhancing social cohesion and economic vitality within local communities. By creating a platform for residents to participate in artistic endeavors, NOS promotes a sense of ownership and pride, enriching the shared cultural fabric of the community.
The arts contribute to communities in diverse ways, offering economic opportunities, fostering social unity, promoting well-being, preserving cultural identity, and serving as a platform for individual expression and collective engagement.
What is the best way for art lovers and shoppers to find their way around?
This year, Focus Real Estate at 43 Lincoln Street, serves as a showroom featuring the work of 10 artists, providing visitors with a central location to explore the diverse range of exhibits. The location will offer maps and information, akin to a visitor center.
[There is also] a detailed, downloadable map on the NOS website [that] offers valuable information about the number of artists at each location, their profiles, and their websites.
