New Bedford Art Museum | Greater New Bedford

Mission

New Bedford Art Museum is dedicated to engaging a diverse audience in compelling exhibitions, exemplary education and creative experiences as a vital innovative center for the arts.

Current Offerings

Kidzone

Led by an art educator on Sundays, this program is an intergenerational family friendly program for kids between the ages of 4-12 years old. Families can enjoy an afternoon of art activities with their children and family for only $5 for the whole family. (Children must be accompanied by an adult.)

School & Community Group Tours

The New Bedford Art Museum offers interactive tours and gallery based lessons led by our education staff. Students and youth groups explore current exhibitions while being encouraged to observe closely, think critically, and share their ideas through thoughtful discussion. Custom art making activities may be designed by the Art Education Manager to complement each tour experience. For more information or to schedule a visit, please email info@newbedfordart.org or

afelix@newbedfordart.org.

artMOBILE

Bright purple vans and experienced art educators engage children with fun, educational art activities at community sites across NB and the SouthCoast. The artMOBILE schedule is available online. Open to the public. Free. We also will book for events during the weekends in the community. Fee depends on services required.

Art Classes & Workshops

The New Bedford Art Museum offers a wide range of thoughtfully designed art classes and workshops for children, teens, and adults throughout the year. Led by experienced teaching artists, these hands-on programs invite participants to explore new materials and techniques, from the potter’s wheel and drawing to a variety of creative practices. Registration is required, and all skill levels are welcome.

Enchanted Evenings

Enchanted Evenings is the New Bedford Art Museum’s after hours program series that invites the community to experience the museum in a relaxed and creative atmosphere. These events may include live music, hands on art making, performances, or special programming inspired by current exhibitions. Enchanted Evenings offers a welcoming space for adults, families, and friends to connect through art, culture, and shared experience.

School Break Art Programs

During school vacation weeks, the New Bedford Art Museum offers creative art programs for students looking to stay engaged while school is out. These programs provide hands on art experiences inspired by the museum’s exhibitions and collections, giving students the opportunity to explore new materials, build skills, and express their creativity in a supportive environment. Programs are led by professional teaching artists and designed to be both enriching and fun.

Creative Care:

Programs for the Elderly

Creative Care is the New Bedford Art Museum’s outreach program designed to support the elderly through meaningful, accessible art experiences. This program brings guided art activities to seniors in community spaces and care facilities, fostering creativity, connection, and well-being. Led by skilled teaching artists, Creative Care encourages self-expression and social engagement while honoring each participant’s life experience and individuality.