The Art drive
Nestled in the scenic and winding roads of Dartmouth and Westport, Massachusetts, are the studios of some of the region’s finest artists. From 10 am-5 pm on August 7th-9th, Art Drive artists open their creative spaces to the community. It is a weekend for conversation, questions, and an opportunity to see the tools and inspirations that drive an artist’s process. Every studio is different. Each participating artist has new work to share, and you may see the beginnings of new ideas still in development. There are also scheduled artists’ presentations but there are always ongoing discussions and opportunities to see creativity at it’s source.
With only 15 miles between the Art Drive studios on the picturesque Southcoast, you will have plenty of time for picnic lunches, ice cream, or meals in one of our area’s restaurants.
In addition, this year introduces an exciting Auction Exhibition, held at Anchor Rock Vineyards (205 Bakerville Rd, Dartmouth, MA) from July 25 through August 1.
An Opening Reception will be held on Saturday, July 25, from 5:00–7:00 PM, welcoming the public to view the exhibition, meet participating artists, and enjoy the vibrant vineyard setting. Anchor Rock Vineyards will be open to the public that evening, offering beverages for purchase along with a food truck, while The Art Drive will host a small refreshment stand.
This exhibition will function as an auction, with each artwork accompanied by a barcode that allows guests to place bids conveniently. Bidding will remain open throughout the exhibition period, with the auction concluding at 6:00 PM on August 1, the final day of the show.
The event also supports an important environmental cause, 50% of auction proceeds will benefit the Buzzards Bay Coalition, with participating artists given the option to donate 100% of their sales.
The Art Drive continues to celebrate the region’s thriving arts community, offering residents and visitors a unique opportunity to experience art where it is made and to connect directly with the artists behind it.
We extend our thanks and appreciation to all our sponsors and supporters which include studioDSK and Servedwell Hospitality.You can view the full list online and in our brochures.
This program is supported by grants from the Dartmouth and Westport Cultural Councils, local agencies which are supported by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency and the Hellen Ellis Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Co-Trustee.
Mission
The mission of the Art drive is to organize and present annual open studio events and promote the Visual Arts in Southeastern Massachusetts. We provide the public with unique opportunities to meet artists and explore a wide variety of art forms by offering intellectually stimulating and professional quality artworks. We support artists in the Dartmouth/Westport communities and also cultivate public awareness of the area’s historic, commercial and natural attractions as a dynamic center for the arts and art-lovers.
The Art Drive is also a weekend of learning and engagement. One of the highlights is a scheduled series of Artist Presentations which include demonstrations and explanations of techniques, styles and processes. Over 17 years our artists have developed a strong bond with community residents and visitors by providing this free event. With an online directory of artist profiles, professionally designed and printed brochures with tour map and targeted promotional materials, the Art Drive provides a mutually beneficial experience for its artists and visitors who participate in this weekend tour.
How the Art drive happens
The Art drive is organized by all of its participating members, with a core group of artists who volunteer to be on the Art drive committee. All artists pay an annual fee to be included in the tour. In addition to grant support, the Art drive is sustained by contributions from local businesses and individuals.
The Art drive Experience
As newcomers to the Southcoast and NYC ex-pats, we have come to love the Art Drive! We celebrate the variety of creativity and the chance to get to know the artists and talk with them about their art-making. It’s a great way to explore this beautiful area and discover how culturally rich it is!“
Camilla Brooks and Margaret Egan
If you are an art lover, the Art drive is a perfect way to spend a summer afternoon. We loved meeting the artists at their studios and seeing all the different media they work in, from painting to photography to sculpture.”
Alison Elliott & Steve Blank
During the Art drive, I saw art that stopped me in my tracks and inspired me to get back to my photography practice. Seeing artists in their studios helped me discover the rich vein of sophisticated art on the South Coast.”
Steve Ashley