Jacksonville has an exciting and thriving arts scene that has much more to offer than just simply hitting the Museum of Contemporary Art and calling it a day. While there is a lot to be said for Jacksonville’s more mainstream and well-known art offerings, there is something exciting about a sense of discovery that comes with checking out lesser-known and non-touristy spots. Join us for a little bit of exploration.
Word Revolt
Located on Mayport Rd in Atlantic Beach, Word Revolt has been developing a reputation for showcasing artists without any barriers to their creativity. Each month there is a themed exhibition with future themes including Metallic Show, Far From Home, and Surf Art. Along with these exhibitions, Word Revolt hosts auctions for charity, workshops for artists, and other events.
CoRK Arts District warehouse
One cannot speak of the Jacksonville contemporary arts scene without mentioning this 20,000 square foot warehouse featuring tons of artists and their studio spaces. These warehouse spaces date back to the 1920s and have recently been repurposed to allow for inexpensive work areas for artists as well as gallery space to show off their finished pieces. The area has become so popular that venues, a coffee shop, and a brewery have all opened up in close proximity.
Yellow House
Located near the CoRK Arts District warehouse, Yellow House was started by Hope Mcmath, the former director of Cummer Museum of Arts & Gardens. It opened its doors to the public in the summer of 2017 and the goal of the new gallery space has been to showcase socially-challenging artwork. A recent exhibition includes The Stories of Arab Immigrant and Refugee Women.
Thrasher Horne art exhibits
The Thrasher Horne art exhibits bring compelling exhibitions to a space some think of as only a performing arts venue. You can find fascinating exhibitions here, ranging from a collection of photographs chronicling Southern Rock heroes to an overview of artists from the 1950s to today that would sell their works from the back of their cars.
The Jacksonville Public Library
One should not forget the library as a place to discover art. The Jacksonville Public Library has rotating exhibitions on the first floor of its main branch as well more works on the second and third floor atriums. The third floor also has a dedicated gallery known as the Betty Francis Gallery.
Wolf & Cub
Who says art needs to stay hung up on a wall? Wolf & Cub is a unique shop that carries tons of one-of-a-kind jewelry, knick-knacks, clothing, and all sorts of other wares made by independent artists. There are plenty of options worth checking out for everyone.
Burrito Gallery
Look, you’re going to get hungry during a day of taking in art. At some point in the day, you should stop over at Burrito Gallery to take in work by local artists as well as appreciating the art involved in creating the perfectly crafted burrito. They even have margaritas because if one thing makes art even more enjoyable than burritos, it is booze.
