The B.R.A.S.S. houses several businesses, including the Top Drawer Art Center, which provides art classes to adults with developmental disabilities. The results of these painting, fiber, mixed media and sculpture classes are, as founder Tom McAleer puts it, "amazing, electric and intuitive." The funky, original retail gallery here sells original paintings, mosaics, sculptures, scarves, necklaces, pillows and more. Events here include regular art openings and workshops.
The South County Art Association may show contemporary artwork, yet its location in historic Kingston covers an appreciation for classical work as well.
The association, which opened in its current location in 1941, calls a structure erected in 1802 its home. While the exterior may look its age, inside, the gallery displays paintings, photographs, jewelery and sculptures that are much more current. The gallery is free to visit, and much of the artwork is available for purchase.
The Fine Arts Center at URI hosts a variety of musical concerts open to the public, students and faculty. Performers include the URI Alumni Wind Ensemble, the Southern New England Honor Band and more. Classes for URI's Music Department also are here.
Located in the 1896 Washington County Courthouse, the Courthouse Center for the Arts has been providing education and entertainment in a multitude of art forms since 1988. The former courthouse had been abandoned by the State of Rhode Island, until the founding members raised enough money to renovate the historic landmark. Since its opening, the Courthouse Center for the Arts has kept a busy schedule ranging from art galleries to live theatrical performances to concerts.
Located in the heart of Edgewood at 2007 Broad Street, Art and Soul Gifts offers works by more than 50 different artists and artisans. With a wide selection of hand blown glass pieces, metal works, jewelry, pottery pieces and paintings, Art and Soul Gifts has been delighting patrons since its opening in 2005. The store also has an art gallery in the back, which features works from local and national artists.
