Newton has a large and vibrant art community consisting of painters, multi-media artists, potters, sculptors, 3-D artists, and photographers. While there is no census about how many artists live in this city, there are thousands of individuals and groups dedicated to art as a critical part of the vitality of the Newton community. A key resource for both creators and admirers of art is the Newton Art Association (NAA), a non-profit organization established in 1949 by James King Bonnar and a group of local artists.
Today the NAA consists of more than 200 artists who work in a variety of mediums. Throughout the year the NAA organizes numerous art exhibits of members’ work. In addition, there are regular group critiques, artist demos, and professional development presentations.
Annual membership in the NAA offers these benefits, including display in the NAA’s Member Gallery. It costs $40 (or $20 for non-exhibiting members, or $15 for students). Member benefits include:
- A member’s page on the website to display images of each member’s artwork, artist statement, and contact information with website
- Eligibility to show in Newton Open Studios (April 27-28 this year)
- Attendance and participation in critiques where members view each other’s ongoing work and provide positive, constructive comments
- Participation in salon evenings devoted to discussions of topics of interest to artists, whether amateur or professional
- Training and resources for learning about the practical aspects of art, including ways to present, hang, and sell work
Anyone interested in learning more about the NAA may email info@newtonartassociation.com.
The NAA has planned these upcoming exhibits — all open to members to exhibit and open for viewing by all in the community:
Art at the Bus Stop: The NAA, in its effort to bring art into Newton’s public spaces, has been granted permission by the City of Newton to create and host an outdoor exhibition space called “Bus Stop Art” located in West Newton’s Captain Ryan Park, beside the bus stop on Washington Street. This is a highly visible location, and the art can be appreciated by those traveling on Washington Street by foot, bicycle, bus, car, or truck. NAA’s Bus Stop Art will be a rotating exhibit now through September 2025, with potential extension granted by the City.
The 2024 James King Bonnar Exhibition: This ongoing exhibit by NAA artists is available through April 30 at The Morse Institute Library (14 East Central Street, Natick).
Rhythms at Suzuki School of Newton: This exhibit of NAA members’ art will be open May 6 through September 3 at the Suzuki School of Newton (1615 Beacon Street, Waban).
NAA New Member Exhibit: This exhibit will be open May 6 through September 3 at the Scandinavian Cultural Center (206 Waltham Street, West Newton).
Ed. Note: Judith Hurwitz is Vice President of the Newton Artists Association.
