Surfers come from miles around to catch great waves, sun worshipers delight in the fact that its majestic coastline is framed by some of the country’s most pristine beaches and everyone who visits is charmed by its rich history and enchanting streets reminiscent of a bygone era; but what you may not know about New Smyrna Beach is that it is also a cultural mecca bursting with art in every variety and full of art enthusiasts, as well as numerous artistic venues for them to enjoy…
The Bob Ross Art Workshop & Gallery
Let’s start with Bob Ross, the lovable hippie television artist who won the hearts of viewing audiences everywhere. Did you know he was from New Smyrna Beach? New Smyrna Beach is also the location of the Bob Ross Art Workshop & Gallery, opened by the man himself in 1992. Filled with a large collection of his paintings and offering classes hosted by guest artists from around the world, as well as books and novelty items for purchase; the Bob Ross Art Workshop & Gallery is also the primary training site for Certified Ross Landscape, Floral and Wildlife Instructors.
We lost Bob Ross in 1995, when he was only 52 years of age, but he will be forever revered as a New Smyrna Beach treasure.
The Hub on Canal
Here’s a little more art history…In the spring of 2010, a bunch of friends with a fondness for the arts and a vision of building a stronger, more stable community through the sharing of art, music and wellness established The Hub on Canal – a central hub where artists could create, display and teach the arts in a welcoming environment.
The Hub on Canal fosters healthy expression, discovery and revitalization with art, as well as collaboration and community connection through the arts and cultural education. Hands-on workshops in art, music, writing, reading and language are also offered at The Hub on Canal, as well as interactive classes for children. If you are more of a spectator, you can take in an art exhibition or musical performance at The Hub on Canal.
Atlantic Center for the Arts
The Atlantic Center for the Arts is a non-profit, multidisciplinary art residency organization that was founded in 1977 by internationally renowned painter, sculptor and environmentalist Doris Leeper. With a mentoring program at its core, Atlantic Center for the Arts has served over 3,500 aspiring and active artists including visual artists, writers, dancers, musicians and more. Its community programs include an impressive array of art lectures, exhibitions, events and children’s art camp.
The Atlantic Center for the Arts Community Arts and Wellness Initiative was created to improve the health and wellness of patients, caregivers and artists. The center also provides internships in a variety of specialties for college students and graduates, as well as facility rentals for events, performances and private retreats.
Art Shows, Festivals and Other Art Events in New Smyrna Beach
Plus, annual art shows and festivals held in New Smyrna Beach include the New Smyrna Beach Art Fiesta, which is a two-day event typically held in February. This is a huge event accommodating approximately 200 artisans and crafters from all over the country who compete for cash and prizes, provide demonstrations and sell their art. There are also live musical performances and food vendors, and it can all be found in Old Fort Park and along Sam’s Avenue and Julia and Canal streets.
Held for years as part of the New Smyrna Beach Art Fiesta and in collaboration with The Hub on Canal, the City of New Smyrna Beach and Canal Street Historic District, Chalk It Up is a sidewalk chalk art competition for kids and adults, judged in various categories for cash prizes.
IMAGES Art Show, which was ranked one of the Top Fine Arts Festivals in the entire nation by Sunshine Artist Magazine, is a family-friendly event which is free to the public, takes place in January and attracts over 50,000 art enthusiasts and over 230 exhibitors. Visitors can also enjoy art demonstrations, food trucks and live music there, as well as a spirit garden, student art exhibits and a hands-on project tent.
Don’t forget the New Smyrna Beach Plein Air Paint Out in October! This amazing art event was created for the purpose of enhancing environmental awareness and promoting art education. During this event, you may see artists set up throughout our picturesque town. They are all using the majestic scenery of New Smyrna Beach for inspiration to paint beautiful pieces of art. The finished works of art are also displayed in an art gallery at the end of each day for public viewing.
New Smyrna Art Galleries
Of course, as you meander through the quaint and welcoming town of New Smyrna Beach, you will also be able to enjoy its numerous art galleries and studios. The Bob Ross Art Workshop and Studio, The Hub on Canal and Atlantic Center for the Arts all have works of art on display, but there is also a wide array of unique art galleries in New Smyrna Beach including (but certainly not limited to) Jonah’s Cat’s Art Gallery with colorful acrylics, watercolors and sculptures – all with the purpose of “raising the consciousness of our planet by bringing life to art and art to life”; Jane’s Art Center, a working paint and pottery studio offering ongoing ceramic workshops and classes for all skill levels; Fernandez Photography & Art Gallery with art, photography and other creations from South and Central Columbia; and Galleria di Vetro offers one-of-a-kind glass gifts and collections.
