Of course New Smyrna Beach is a paradise for surfers, fisherman and beachgoers alike, but what you may not know is that this majestic coastal town is also a cultural mecca with a thriving arts community and a variety of venues to please the artist in everyone…
For instance, we locals are very proud of the fact that New Smyrna Beach was the town Bob Ross called home and it is now home to the Bob Ross Art Workshop & Gallery. Opened in 1992 by the lovable hippie artist himself, the Bob Ross Art Workshop & Gallery is filled with a large collection of his paintings and offers classes hosted by guest artists from around the world, as well as books and novelty items for purchase.
There is also The Hub on Canal which was founded in 2010 by a bunch of friends with a fondness for the arts and a vision of building a solid arts community through the sharing of art, music and wellness. This impressive art venue is a central hub where artists can create, display and teach the arts in a welcoming environment.
The Atlantic Center for the Arts, a non-profit, multidisciplinary art residency organization that was founded in 1977 by internationally renowned painter, sculptor and environmentalist Doris Leeper, is also a staple of New Smyrna Beach’s artist community. 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; and its community programs include an impressive array of art lectures, exhibitions, events and a children’s art camp.
Annual art shows and festivals are also held in New Smyrna Beach, including the New Smyrna Beach Art Fiesta, which is a two-day event hosting approximately 200 artisans and crafters from all over the country. The Chalk It Up sidewalk competition is part of the New Smyrna Beach Art Fiesta in collaboration with The Hub on Canal.
IMAGES Art Show, which was ranked one of the Top Fine Arts Festivals in the entire nation by Sunshine Artist Magazine, attracts over 50,000 art enthusiasts and over 230 exhibitors!
Plus, don’t forget the New Smyrna Beach Plein Air Paint Out in October. This amazing art event was created to enhance environmental awareness and promote art education. Throughout it, you may see artists set up throughout our picturesque town. They are all using the majestic scenery of New Smyrna Beach for inspiration for their artistry. The finished works of art are also displayed in an art gallery at the end of each day for public viewing.
Of course, New Smyrna Beach visitors can also enjoy its numerous art galleries and studios as they meander through our quaint, historic streets.