New Art Center in Newton

The New Art Center is a nonprofit community art center in Newton offering classes, exhibitions and cultural programs for people of every age and skill level. Programs include drawing, painting and ceramics for adults, classes and vacation programs for teens, and art classes and summer programs for young children through elementary school. Students come from Newton, Boston, Brookline, Wellesley, Watertown, Waltham, Needham, Belmont and beyond to make, view and talk about art.

Since 1977 the center has worked to lower barriers to participation in the arts, and it now offers more than 400 classes a year to over 3,200 students, taught by faculty that includes some of the region’s most esteemed art educators. Its exhibition program showcases students, faculty and local artists, including a BIPOC curatorial program. Free community outreach includes art therapy programs for teens and for women survivors of domestic abuse, plus inclusive classes for adults with developmental delays and communication disabilities.

What to Know

• Scholarships and tuition subsidies are available for children, teens and adults.
• The New Art Corridor exhibition space is open to visitors around the clock, year-round.
• Christina An, PhD, became executive director as the center approached its 50th year.
• Community Cultural Days celebrate holidays from the area’s diverse communities.
• Youth leadership programs help young artists build skills and confidence.