farmington valley arts center

Love this place! I get an idea or find just the right hand crafted gift every visit! Set in the back of the old dynamite factory "Avon Park North" its the1st brownstone outdoor mall straight out of 1800's for people sick of crowds and enjoy nature! With other shops on RT44 cor. Ensign Dr. First timers should wear comfortable shoes, check the weather, several bldgs spread out over 5 acres and can see it all in about 90 minutes

An old two story building with individual spaces for the artists to work and display, there are around 20 resident there. You walk along the walkway outside, kind of like at a motel, each "room" is an artist's space, you can look in the windows to see what they do, then go in if you are interested. At the far end there is a larger gallery. I was told it was a fuse factory at one time. We stopped there briefly, will go back again to spend more time. Worthwhile checking it out. I think there is just one Saturday each month that is an "open house" when all of the artists are there.

FVAC has been around for scores of years, supporting local artists, offering instruction, inspiration and connecting art to life! The center is a stone two story enclave that are artist studios, classrooms, a gallery and a visitors/gift gallery. The studio artists offer 'open studios' many weekends throughout the year, there are several special and juried shows, stimulating classes and seminars, live music concerts and great holiday or gift shopping to name just a few of the treats visitors have in store. The varied mediums of art from paintings to sculpture to jewelry and more are incredibly impressive, from local and consigned artists, at all price points. There is also an awesome summer camp for kids! It is a little hard to find, near the Avon Police Station, just off the center of Avon off Rt. 44 but the website will direct you well. Check it often, lots of activity and opportunity for budding artists and collectors of all ages.