If outdoor weekend plans got canceled because of rainy weather, there are other activities to do indoors. Exploring an art gallery happens to be one of those activities. From works by dozens of artists, have a day at an art gallery admiring all the works on display. From Montclair Art Museum to Paul Robeson Galleries, there is a lot of art to go around. Read more for a complete guide to amazing art galleries that are worth a visit right here in Montclair and Essex County.
DiRasa House of Diversified Arts | 4 Lackawanna Plaza, Montclair
This art gallery has easy proximity to various NJ Transit train stops — Walnut Street + Bay Street, also known as the Montclair-Boonton Line. DiRasa welcomes artists far and wide, where their unique works are displayed. Mosaic-inspired art, acrylic-painted art, and even celebrity-inspired pieces are on display to admire. DiRasa also happens to be located in the downtown area of Montclair, where you can also explore all of the surrounding parks, restaurants, and boutiques after a day of exploring DiRasa’s exhibits.
Read More: Dramatic Arts Programs for Students + Adults in the Montclair Area
J. Nunez Gallery | 343 Millburn Avenue, Millburn
View this post on Instagram
The J. Nunez Gallery is owned by none other than well-known international chef and visual artist Jesús Núñez. The new gallery features original abstract paintings made from high-quality materials that complement a wide range of tastes and styles that are one-of-a-kind.
Montclair Art Museum | 3 South Mountain Avenue, Montclair
The Montclair Art Museum was founded in 1914 and was the first museum in New Jersey to grant access to the public and focus only on art. It has preserved American and Native American Art since its inception and contains over 12,000 pieces of artwork including sculptures, ceramics, artifacts, and more.
Montclair State University Galleries | 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair
Photo Credit: Cary Whittier
Montclair State University houses multiple galleries including the flagship George Segal Gallery, which includes work from professional artists with a focus on contemporary art. The Sculpture Garden has over a dozen outdoor works. University Galleries’ mission is to bring together ideas, perspectives, and dialogues to foster curiosity and shared understandings through art. The spot presents diverse and inclusive exhibitions and programs creating connections that unite the campus experience with the local and global community. The Galleries’ vision is to become a premier destination for modern and contemporary art.
Paul Robeson Galleries | 54 Halsey Street, Newark
View this post on Instagram
Established in 1979, the Paul Robeson Galleries are located at Rutgers University-Newark in honor of artist and activist Paul Robeson. The Galleries’ mission and programming embody Robeson’s life-long commitment to artistic freedom, cultural democracy, and an activist approach. This commitment includes organizing free exhibitions and public/education programs on local, regional, and international contemporary art and culture, as well as developing civic partnerships through community outreach programs. The galleries are free and open to the public.
Studio Montclair Inc | 127 Bloomfield Avenue, Montclair
View this post on Instagram
For over 20 years, Studio Montclair Inc has celebrated artists by showcasing their work. The studio’s mission is to promote culture, education, equality, and tolerance through art and diversity. Studio Montclair Inc also has art classes through the Art Academy to people of all ages and abilities. Classes include painting, jewelry design, drawing, fiber arts, and sculpture.
The Space | 356 Bloomfield Avenue Loft #2, Montclair
The Space hosts a variety of exhibits and also is a meeting space to discuss ideas with other like-minded people. And of course, The Space is a place to make art. The spot has weekly figure drawing classes, painting and drawing workshops, and monthly art salons. It is a hub for performance artists and storytellers to express themselves.
See More: Your Guide to Jersey City Art Galleries
Tiny Gallery | 8 Stanford Place, Montclair
Montclair resident Francesca Castagnoli came up with the idea of starting her very own miniature art gallery on her front lawn. The gallery hosts themed, month-long exhibits by local artists and stands on the corner of 8 Stanford Place in Montclair. Residents have the opportunity to take a look at the artworks on display while on their daily walk or commute.
