Visit Art Galleries in Macon, GA

For many, art is an extension of life, while for others, it’s a great way to add depth to a room and make areas aesthetically pleasing. In either case, art is a representation of how things are or how we wish them to be. With hundreds of art collections around the world, it’s clear that art in all its forms is important to culture and serves as a record of life. Visiting an art gallery, you can see life unfolding and time changing.

There are many art galleries in the area which document the changing of the times. Read on to learn about the top art galleries in Macon, Georgia.

Gallery West

Gallery West in Macon showcases the work of Kirk West, who traveled with and photographed the Allman Brothers. Upon his retirement from traveling with the band, he opened up a pop-up shop to sell some photographs. However, the popularity grew and what was once supposed to be a quick way to sell some stills for the holidays became the Gallery West. Gallery West is now one of the central spots for Macon’s First Friday events, which is an every-month fair/festival where local vendors, artisans, and community members support each other, shop, and gather to enjoy the evenings.

Gallery West also showcases work from other artists and has rotating exhibitions to keep things fresh. Other artists who have their work on the walls of the studio include photographers Gilbert Lee and Sidney Smith. Gallery West has established itself as a can’t-miss spot in Macon. Even if you aren’t a fan of the Allman Brothers Band, you can enjoy the aesthetically pleasing layout and dynamic pieces hanging on the walls.

Gallery West is at 447 Third St., Macon. For gallery hours, check the website. For more information, call 478-972-1598.

The 567 Center for Renewal

The 567 Center for Renewal is on a mission to revive downtown Macon and transform it through art. For more than 10 years, the 567 Center for Renewal has served as an outlet for local artists to showcase their work and get noticed. There are art exhibits, events, and a studio space to help support the arts and the creators.

At the 567 Center, individuals can visit the gallery to marvel at some of the exhibits. Currently showing is an exhibit called Favorite Things. It has interesting pieces ranging from depictions of things like fruit to abstract paintings of birds. All art from this collection is on sale for under $100. Upcoming exhibits are Artwork by Claudia Hartley and Pink Poodle Parade in February. Other features at the 567 Center include a pottery studio and art classes that welcome community members.

The 567 Center for Renewal is at The Gallery and is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. It also hosts an opening reception on the first Friday of each month to showcase the new exhibits. Admission is free. For more information or to learn how you can help support local artists, call 478-238-6051.

Tubman African American Museum

The Tubman African American Museum is named after the famed and brave historical figure Harriet Tubman who risked her life to save hundreds of slaves. This museum is dedicated to celebrating African American art, history, and culture and is the largest of its kind in the southeast. The Tubman Museum’s mission is to celebrate, educate, and share the rich and detailed art and history of African Americans.

When you go, be sure to check out the mural, From Africa to America. It’s comprised of nine panels, some of which were created in the late 1980s. It is a visual timeline illustrating the origins of man from Africa to America. It is over 68 inches tall and 55 feet long and is a testament to what individuals can accomplish over time when working together.

For something that hits closer to home, check out Untold Stories. This collection features documents from people and places in Macon that have had an impact on our very own African American community and culture.

The Tubman African American Museum is at 310 Cherry St., Macon. General admission tickets begin at $10 for adults and $6 for children. The museum’s hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed Sunday and Monday. For more information or to learn how you can rent the museum for your next event, call 478-743-8544.

Macon Arts Alliance

The Macon Arts Alliance focuses on fostering and supporting awareness of the arts in the central Georgia community. The Macon Arts Gallery is a location where artists can showcase and sell their art to interested individuals. This instills a sense of pride in the community and ensures that Macon artists are represented in the artistic realm.

With over 300 artists represented, you’ll find mediums ranging from pottery and paintings to photography, sculpting, and even fabric arts. This is a great option for unique gifts for the person who has everything. You can even find artistic jewelry for that special someone in your life.

The gallery is at 486 First St., Macon. Gallery hours of operation are Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information or to learn about how to purchase a specific piece, call 478-743-6940.

So, there you have it. Riverside Ford has just shared our list of the top local art galleries to visit for some culture, fun, and even classes. No matter your artistic inclinations, you’re sure to find something of interest and may even end up purchasing a replica to hang in your own home.

What do you think of our list? Did we miss your favorite gallery to wander through on a Saturday afternoon? If we did, please let us know. Leave us a message sharing your thoughts, and we’ll be sure to check out your idea. You may even find we have added your suggestion to our list in the future.