We are a center for art, education, and community.

Our Mission

Essex Art Center inspires and sustains lifelong growth and learning for artists of all ages in Greater Lawrence. Our classes, events, and exhibitions harness the power of art to transform lives.

Learn more about our Building Creatively Campaign here.

Upcoming Events

Classes at Essex Art Center

We believe in the power of arts education. In our classrooms, you can learn a new skill, make friendships, engage in new dialogues, and expand your world.

We offer a variety of courses that range from beginner to advanced in ceramics, stained glass, drawing, painting, digital art, and animation.

To ensure our programs remain accessible to our community, Lawrence youth 18 and under benefit from a 75% discount on all courses, Lawrence adults receive a 30% discount, and all seniors receive 10% off. 

Learn more about enrollment here.

Exhibitions

We have an ambitious vision of what art can do. We see art as a connector in our community and a platform for communication about issues that matter.

We strive to amplify under-represented voices and work to ensure that our exhibitions are responsive to what's happening in the world and relevant to our community.

We are committed to supporting emergent careers and ideas as well as more established and renowned artists and curators. Our galleries and correlating special events are always free and open to the public.

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS

Founded in 1993, Essex Art Center is a community-based nonprofit that understands art’s capacity to transform lives and communities.

Over the last three decades, we have seen students become instructors and former students send their children to engage with our programs. How special that we have served as the creative home for so many for multiple generations!

We are proud to reside in Lawrence and have enjoyed adding color and life to our vibrant city. Check out some of our historic photos below!