I drove in from Charlotte area to attend a 'First Friday' event hosted by my daughter-in-law. Her and my Son live in New Hampshire so she came into town to for the entire month of July to paint and get prepared for the 8/1/25 event. Molly is a talented and experienced artist, primarily in oil and acrylic. They had invited about a dozen or so people from around CLT Region who came into town to see her and James since they live in NH. It was an interesting evening because it started raining hard just about 7p as the event was getting in gear. I'm sure it deterred quite a few from attending. There are two floors with other 'artist in residence' so it was a lively and diverse Friday crowd. I did make it 'upstairs' to meet Caitlin Cary, a local artist who has a studio there. Some may know here as vocalist/violin player with Ryan Adams formerly of the band Whiskeytown. read more

A great eclectic collection of local artists. Friendly front desk receptionist. Fun to see some artists currently working in their studios. Inspiring experience. read more

Finally got a chance to visit ArtSpace. Upon entering I was immediately greeted and provided a brief intro to what to expect as I walked around. The Artspace is not as large as I thought. It's a nice space with a variety of art that captured my attention. Some of the Artists were in their studio. All of the Artists present were nice, and welcoming and engaged with me about the inspiration of their work. I enjoyed this space. I must see! read more

Artspace - Art Galleries Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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I went here for their first Friday event because my nephew was part of an exhibit there with his self portrait photography. It's a beautiful place with plenty of artist selling their one of a kind works. It's two stories and they have artist in residence on both floors. It was a nice vibe to spend a Friday night. read more

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My letter, directly below, to the Artspace Board of Directors and, below that, the correspondence leading up to my letter, spell out how Cancel Culture is practiced at Artspace in Raleigh NC Greetings Artspace Board Members, I am a six-year volunteer with Art Space of Raleigh, having started in March of 2014, and serving through March of 2020 until COVID-19 shut us down. I resumed volunteering once the "First Friday" visitors were back in swing. During my time as a volunteer, I was on site, perhaps 60 to 64 times, missing about 10 First Fridays due to my travel as a professional speaker and cruise ship speaker. My volunteer experience initially included serving wine and beer. I then became the food server for many years. The supervisors, including Mary Kennedy, were glad because I was one of the few who never consumed the Artspace food! During some First Fridays, I stayed on for a second 3-hour shift, on short notice, when other scheduled volunteers did not appear. In addition, I served as a volunteer on some weekends during Family Days directing a variety of activities for kids. I also volunteered at the annual benefactors banquet - a black tie affair with lavish hors d'oeuvres and entertainment. After COVID-19, I was assigned to the education room. During such sessions, parents with children or children on their own would create some type of art or craft. The new supervisor was David, who praised me on several occasions during my nights of volunteering, as I always arrived early, took few breaks, did not require refreshments, and handled crowds of all sizes. In March 2023, I was a volunteer once again. Then, I was traveling on the first Friday in April and in May, so I was not available again until June. hen I signed up for June weeks later, I saw that my sign-up had been removed. When I re-signed, I was informed by David via email, out of the blue (see below) that I had committed a grievous sin 10 weeks before and could no longer volunteer. Ten weeks. I have included, verbatim, sequential correspondence between myself and David. - - - - - - Hi Jeff, I apologize for not responding to you sooner. I am going to politely ask that you no longer volunteer with Artspace moving forward. We have appreciated your support, but my colleague Danny reported that you used inappropriate language that could've made attendees feel uncomfortable while volunteering during March First Friday. At Artspace, we're striving to create a space that people from all walks of life can feel comfortable in and we need volunteers who reinforce that culture. Again, thank you for the support but I feel its best if you no longer volunteer with Artspace. Best, David Greetings David, I did not knowingly use any inappropriate language at any time. Before you came on board, I was a volunteer for 6 years every First Friday at Artspace, and was widely acknowledged as an asset on First Fridays. Now, I hear this kind of accusation. What specific language does Danny have to report? I would be most interested in knowing the specifics as opposed to some general accusation. If you're going to make an accusation, let me hear what it is. Jeff, I'm happy to give you a call later today to discuss. However, as the Director of Community Engagement and the person who manages Artspace's volunteer program this is my final decision. Please let me know the best time to call you today. Thank you, David David, You can call me anytime {he never did, I had to force a call}, I'm interested knowing a couple of things: * What does Danny say that I said, verbatim? * Next, if I happened to say something that he thought was inappropriate, why did he not tell me at the time? * Why does it take 3 months to find out such news? * Also, don't be concerned that I'm going to attempt to continue to be a volunteer. read more

A very diverse, non-profit gallery run by the artists themselves, Artspace is a great place to visit on First Friday! Two floors of exhibits and studios, most of the pieces are paintings and mixed media for your walls. First floor is primarily exhibits while on the second floor you've got the artist studios themselves. The artists typically rotate in and out over time so there's always something new to see! I volunteer from time to time and the place can get hopping on First Fridays. We typically have some wine, beer and snacks, donation requested. And often there'll be some live music playing. So stop on by on the next First Friday and roam around a bit. I'm sure you'll enjoy the art, the space and of course, Artspace! I'll try and get some pictures next time I'm there... read more

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Artspace is nestled in Downtown Raleigh and features local artists. They have 3 galleries that change every couple of months, surrounding a theme. In addition to their galleries, they have artist space that is rented out, where the artists curate their work, sell it and can speak to their pieces. It's really neat to see so many different styles and pieces throughout the gallery. Artspace also hosts a ton of classes and events, where you can learn a new skill or hear from the artists about their pieces. Artspace is also free, but once you visit, you'll definitely want to donate to support the local arts community. It's really a gem within Raleigh. read more

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I'm a fan of artspace because the setup is like no other Gallery I've been to. I usually go on first Friday (which happens every first Friday of he month in downtown Raleigh) There are studios that different artists occupy. Each studio is a mini gallery so you get to see an array of styles and art work at the same location. Plus there are over 20 artist studios. They also have exhibitions in the two open areas they have. On first Fridays pretty much all the artists are there showing off their art and sometimes working on a current piece. You can ask the artists questions, etc. There is also complimentary snacks and wine (suggested donation) They usually also have live music, poetry, etc. on the bottom floor. If your free on a first Friday I suggest artspace and it's right downtown so you can walk to a restaurant or bar close by to continue your night. On first Friday it's 6-10pm I believe. read more

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Love that this wonderful part of our community allows for all to wander in and see the studious of local artists / find art for purchase! I came with a friend, visiting from out of town, who equally felt impressed. I daydream too of one day becoming so entwined with my art that I too am able to rent space here... ahh, to know that such a dream can only be possible d/t the existence of ArtSpace is in itself a magical thing read more

Artspace - Art Galleries Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Artspace is what I call a hidden gem, places like it are usually hard to find in a city and many of the people living there don't even know about, such was the case with my visit. A friend and I were just touring the town and we got on the R Line and decided to get off near City Market and check it out and artspace was one of the places we found. If I was a resident of the city I would definitely support the artists here by purchasing their works to furnish my home. My favorite artist here was Ann Harwell, a quilter. I was checking out the studios and I saw a painting that looked pretty cool so I walked up to see it and to my surprise it was a quilt. She uses lots of different fabrics and pieces that create a mosaic like quality, all painting a bigger picture. Then she hand quilts patterns and details into the quilt adding another dimension. I asked her how many hours one quilt took and she replied, "hundreds," and I believe it. Her quilts were priced at $6000 which seems steep but I've seen art like this cost way more and poorer quality work cost nearly as much. My favorite piece of hers was a tree in Yosemite, a downed Sequoia that I took a photo of in 2007. My buddy got his portrait painted in an hour for $100 upstairs by an artist named Lucille Winner. He's an artist who has lived in places like Austin and was amazed at the quality of art he discovered here and once he saw her work it was the first time he really wanted to have another artist do his portrait. All in all artspace is a great place to visit as well as some of the other artists lofts and shops in the same block. Definitely a place I will visit again. read more

Artspace - Art by Lucille Winners on the 2nd floor - Art Galleries Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

If you are an art, design or creative arts lover, this is a must see in Raleigh. It isn't a big government funded museum or academic institution arts complex, but a art community rented space and showcase facility. This is free to the public and open to all. While inside you will see two amazing floors of creative display from clay, to woven to painted to sculpted art. You will also see the performance studios of the arts in the raw context of their creative process. This is both an educational, consumer based and artistic haven. It is rare you see the process from the ground up and then see the fruits of the labors. This is a must. read more

Stumbled upon this cutie while getting lost in a new city. Price: free to view. They offer classes as well as studio space. If an artist is in their studio they will talk to you and even invite you in. If supported, this could really bring together a community like Raleigh. read more

Artspace - Felt creation only @ Artspace - Art Galleries Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

I have been a patron of Artspace since I was a kid as my mom is an artist and used to force my brother and I to come along with her. It used to be more of a chore, but now it is entertainment as I always add it to my monthly schedule of visiting during First Friday evenings in downtown Raleigh. The great thing about Artspace is that it is sort of a hub of local artists who practice their craft, sell, and consult, right there it the building. You can peruse through the various studios on open evenings such as First Friday, and watch the artists work and/or buy art of your fave local artist. On First Friday, and other art openings, there are usually drinks and hors d'oeuvres, along with live music. Artspace has recently launches "Artspace pop-ups" where they feature local artists in commercial storefronts that are empty. Artspace rents the space for a short period of time, and then goes to another locale. The most recent location was at North Hills where my mom was the featured artist (shameless plug- her name is Beverly Mecum, and she is amazing!) Do you and your community some good and go to Artspace and support these local artists!!!! You'll feel great about yourself and you can gain a little cultural exposure while you are at it! read more

If you're in downtown Raleigh and want to explore the local art scene, Artspace is a must! Formerly a livery and later an early Ford dealership, the building is now a collection of artists' studios, art education space and rotating exhibit galleries. You can visit the studios of established local artists like Anna Podris and Keith Norval to admire their work and see the effort that goes in to making a good painting, but paintings are just part of the art on show; prints, sculptures in a variety of mediums, woodworking, jewelry, photography, fiber art and more are also present for your enjoyment. In addition to being an art haven, Artspace is also a beautiful example of what can happen when art and old buildings mix! Rather than being chopped up into cramped offices or demolished and turned into tacky condos, the historic building housing Artspace has been reborn into total functionality and the space arrange to allow the architectural details and airiness to shine from gallery to studio. Conveniently located within walking distance of the Moore Square bus station, lots of parking and numerous restaurants, Artspace is the perfect destination for any visit to Raleigh's downtown! read more

Honestly, Artspace is one of my favorite things about Raleigh. It is a cross-section of what makes the south unique and beautiful. According to its website "Artspace is a non-profit visual art center dedicated to presenting quality exhibitions and educational programs within an open studio environment." In essence, it's a working gallery space where individual arts can work and sell art. Think shopping for a wide-range of local art in one dynamic and welcoming space. But don't feel like it's all about acquiring your next masterpiece. There are three rotating gallery spaces plus pieces showcased throughout the building. Every time you wander through Artspace, you'll see something new. What I like most about Artspace is that it oozes creativity. You can feel the artistic sweat in every brush stroke. These are people who are dedicated to their work and it feels good to be in that environment. You can chat up artists, asking them about their process, getting the back story on pieces and techniques. I have not been able to explore their educational offerings, but I'm sure that each class is just as dynamic as the organization. Classes range from young artists to college-prep and adult dabbling. My first Artspace purchase was a custom-made ring from metal artist Megan Clark. She designs fabulously affordable and organic metal jewelry. Her organic but machines style is wonderfully southern. I'm proud to wear and support a local artist. Artspace is a cornerstone of the First Fridays art scene and has special events, like LoPop, throughout the season. Visitors can vote for their favorite piece of the evening while noshing on light fare and purchased wine. There is always something to see at Artspace, which makes it a great wander in downtown Raleigh. read more

Went to a wedding here in the Fall. The space was great for a modern wedding. Had a few great shows in the space, the staff was great. read more

I absolutely love Artspace. The gallery is a non-profit where a variety of different types of artists have space to both create and display their art. One walk through the gallery and you can see some fabulous drawings, photography, paintings, sculpture, and all sorts of other things. One unique part of Artspace is they also have a theater on site for performing arts (a rarity in an art gallery-at least in this area). Most of the artists are on hand while the gallery is open to talk with you and answer any questions you might have about their work-definitely a good feature. read more

Some really great artists and works on display. You can meet the artist and chat about their works. This was my first time here but enjoyed the place immensely. Stop by and check it out read more

Artspace - Artspace - Art Galleries Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

Free admission to quality art exhibits (so leave a donation) and artist studios open to the public, all under one roof!

If you are looking for quality art work from our local artists, I strongly recommend this place in Raleigh... First Friday is always amazing, but they have a wide range of art and styles and you will definitely enjoy yourself at this location. During First Friday, there is live music as well....and I have met quite a few really cool artist at this jewel in downtown Raleigh.. read more

I stopped in here with my 5 year old son after dinner one night not knowing what to expect. It was so cute - We bought such sweet, one of a kind and handmade items - We had a great time. We learned all about their activities/art schedules and will be back for some play time very soon. The woman in the store while we were there were so great too! read more

Artspace was kind of a curiosity for a long time. I'd watched a couple of plays there, but never really explored it much beyond that. Eventually, I was pushed into walking though so I could see some work by a friend of a friend. Since it was on a First Friday, many of the artists were hanging out by their studios and were more than willing to talk to me about what they were up to since I'm mostly useless when it comes to looking at a painting or sculpture and reading between any lines beyond "ooh, pretty." It's definitely a laid back scene, even on the super busy First Fridays. If you check it out at a less crowded time and happen to catch one of the artists (some even helpfully post "office hours" if you will), they're even more pleased to walk you though what they're up to. It's a nice little downtown location that lends itself to wandering should you ever have a little time to kill. read more

Great place to find local artists of all kinds. Works for sale though you will meet most artists on the first Friday night of the month. read more

Artspace - A portrait of whippets in the works. Oil on canvas - Art Galleries Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

I loved Artspace!! I went for First Friday which occurs after hours (so on Yelp it may say it's closed but really it's open to the public but since it's after hours for this special day-the First Friday of every month-it's still listed as closed). On First Friday this place is open for local artists to showcase their pieces in any of the different rooms and me being the nosy person I am, I asked a million questions and learned that everyone has such an intriguing story- I'd highly recommend stopping by. Surprise yourself with the immense talent and high price tags. Some artists are nice enough to offer some snacks and drinks :) read more

Eclectic collection of galleries run by the artists themselves in a large 2 story building downtown. Artists are friendly and approachable. But I never know what to say to them....especially when I don't understand their art. First Friday is fun, but can get crowded. read more

Cool place on First Friday. Great to see local art. Pretty diverse work, too. Would love to see more jewelry. Was busy but in a fun, happy way. The only bad thing would be that the wine for sale is not all that great, but with so many local places to grab drinks after, that is not really a big issue. read more

"Eclectic Collection of Art in a working Artist's Studio Venue" Exposed for the first time during a First Friday event. Meandering thru a rather packed and energetic crowd. Live Music; fun art, artists at their booths/rooms. Two floors of mixed media anything from jewelry makers to Classic Oil painters. My fav were two on the 2nd flood. A classic oil/acrylic artist painting old-school still-life pieces. Another was a sculptor with some small and large pieces. Be back for more and maybe a purchase when I bring back a check-book. read more

This review only regards my experience while planning an event at artspace. The location is neat, but the communication and professionalism (or lack of) of the business manager leave a sour taste in your mouth before, during, and after your event. The rest of the staff were very nice, but when you plan an event at Artspace, you deal solely with the business manager. This made things very difficult for me, as the planner for my event. I worked with her for over 5 months, and not once did she remember my name nor would she recall any conversation we had. She is very disorganized and obviously has a lot going on without a good method of keeping it all together. I had many phone conversations with her - where I had to remind her of things she had already told me, or perhaps remind her that she had not mentioned something - although she would be insistent that she had. It was very frustrating and taxing. It required much more work and 110% dilligence on my end, which meant no down time. On the day of my event, artwork that was to be moved for a slide show, was not. She said she would pull 5 or 6 tables out, she did not. I had to convince the security guard (you have to pay for a security guard - $25 an hour) that I needed the artwork to be moved, which on the day of your event, is not something you want to be doing. I had specifically made a special trip to Artspace the week before to take care of that, and to get it out of the way, which made this last minute process all the more frustrating. If I had to do it over again, I would NOT use artspace. I would find another place downtown that had better customer service (which wouldn't be hard). Because of the poor customer service, the planning was extremely difficult for me throughout the entire process...even at the end. Nothing was made easy on my end. At this point, I look forward to getting my $500 security deposit check back and will put more research into my venue for my next event. ps - I gave it 3 stars because regardless of my frustrations, I was a cool venue and my guest enjoyed their time. That aside, it was a stressful experience that is not recommended. I really feel like you can do better, especially for the cost. read more

I don't have anything sophisticated or artsy to say, but it is fun to come here and browse the Art Studios. You can meet and chat with the Artists and get outside your box to see inside the minds and creativity of other folks. It just feels good, and is a great way to support our local art scene. You can mosey through while sipping wine on First Fridays, or just pass some time here any day of the week. read more

This is the coolest place on earth. You can come in, watch artists work , talk with them and became their patron (dont have to). Bring a baby, and its as if you are visiting the family. If you can deal with your own mediocrity crushing you, of course . These people are kissed-by-God talented, as they would say in Russia. My head was spinning from all the amazing art and paint fumes, but something else made a dent in my tired overwhelmed brain. One artist, crippled by disease in the wheelchair, made an installation of his shoes in the wall and the date he wore them last. He also had landscapes, marine scenes, potraits but nothing said more about him than his shoes. I wonder if it's like this with everyone. What if shoes scream our secrets to the world. When on the wall and when not. read more

there was no attendant when we walked in. there was a bell we could ring, but it would have been nice to be greeted and introduced to the amazing space. the work in the gallery spaces was well curated. most artists were not in, but a few were and working which was wonderful to witness. I spoke with one artist about the space and the commitments made of those who participate, and it seemed like a good model so long as there is support from the staff to bring buyers into the space. read more

Artspace - Art Galleries Near Me - Raleigh, North Carolina

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Excellent first Friday spot. Live music, wine & beer for sale and a very diverse mix of artists. All have unique stories and very different styles. There are two feature galleries with chosen art on display and at least 2 dozen studios where artists sell their pieces and share stories on what inspires them. One of our favorites is Tim Postell who has a studio upstairs. He paints mostly still life and my personal favorite, landscapes. He manages to capture the scene in such a way that takes you there bringing back familiar and happy memories. Excellent way to just relax on a First Friday in Raleigh. read more

Several stories of art, with many artist residency studio spaces. I paid my first visit here earlier this month during the Friday Art Walk which is an excellent time to check it out. They have some live jazz, drinks and nibbles with donations going towards funding the space and its programming. So you get to enjoy art, sip wine and feel sophisticated -- all while helping support some great local culture. For the most part, I didn't really engage with the artists; I guess I'm a little shy in that regard... don't really know what to ask. And art is so subjective (and I have ridiculous tastes!). That said, there were a few notable moments for me: meeting Casey Porn (who did one of the paintings I selected for a raffle at our last OYE; love her stuff and it was cool to see her in person and hear about the dog that's the inspiration for a lot of her work); and the bold paintings of two separate artists -- one (drat -- can't remember his name!) who uses bodies, heavy shadows and thick lines; and another, Linda Ruth Dickinson, whose paintings were series of colorful stripes that seemed like the wash of beauty in a sunrise. The latter is one of those rare times I spot art that I could actually see showcasing in my house -- unfortunately the price-points were around $4,500! Yowza. I'm always sad when art comes across as prohibitively expensive; luckily, there's Etsy to help combat that assumption. read more