Tufts Blogs

 

Studying art in the Boston area means you’re constantly surrounded by exhibitions, talks, and creative spaces—sometimes without even leaving campus. One of the things I’ve loved most about being at Tufts is how many opportunities there are to be in conversation with practicing artists, curators, and scholars, all while still feeling anchored in our own community. 

On-Campus & Tufts-Affiliated Art Spaces

Tufts University Art Galleries (TUAG)

TUAG anchors the art community on campus, hosting exhibitions, visiting artists, and programs that spark conversations long after you leave the gallery. Their shows are consistently incredible and thought-provoking, and the lectures and panels connect students directly with working artists and scholars.

SMFA Student-Curated Exhibitions

SMFA students also curate exhibitions every semester, which is one of my favorite parts of the community here. A friend recently curated a bug-themed show (complete with bug-themed cupcakes at the closing), and it was such a perfect reminder of how much creativity is nurtured among students.

SMFA Area Shows 

The SMFA atrium regularly turns into a juried gallery for student work, with each area show highlighting work from specific areas of study at SMFA—like print and paper or ceramics. It’s a chance to see what your peers are making and gain hands-on experience with installation and exhibition practices.

Alumni & Faculty Connections

SMFA graduates and faculty are incredibly active in Boston’s art world. One alum recently won the Institute of Contemporary Art's Foster Prize, a prestigious award that recognizes exceptional Boston-area artists. The prize includes a dedicated exhibition at the ICA and is now in its tenth edition.

Boston Museums & Art Institutions

Museum of Fine Arts (MFA)

A short train ride away, the MFA offers large-scale exhibitions and an extensive collection. I recently went to the Martin Puryear exhibition, and afterward stumbled upon a Sam Maloof chair—a piece I had been researching for class suddenly right in front of me.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

The Isabella Stewart Garner is a museum I visit often for its mix of historic furniture, textiles, and contemporary installations. It’s a great place to study materiality and construction up close, especially in the context of Isabella’s eclectic home.

Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA)

Boston’s main contemporary art museum, known for its cutting-edge exhibitions, waterfront architecture, and commitment to supporting local artists. Right now they're hosting the aforementioned Foster Prize Exhibition, a curation of incredible portraits from their permanent collection, and a beautiful exhibition focused on indigenous voices and perspectives called "An Indigenous Present". 

Boston Triennial 

This year’s Triennial was a highlight for me! My class visited the work of and met artist Stephen Hamilton, whose work with weaving and natural dyes was so inspiring to learn about directly. The Boston Triennial essentially is a collection of public installations that aim to create conversations and activate spaces throughout Boston.

Boston Figurative Art Center 

A community-focused studio and gallery centered on contemporary figurative work. They offer exhibitions, workshops, and drawing sessions, making it a great place for practicing traditional skills while getting to know other artists.

Pao Arts Center 

A cultural community center in Chinatown dedicated to uplifting AAPI artists. They host exhibitions, work with local artists, offer incredible creative programming, and have had many of my friends work for them as interns!

Other Art Spaces in Massachusetts

MASS MoCA

A massive contemporary art museum known for its large-scale installations and more. SMFA usually organizes a field trip here, and the immersive experience is always worth the trip.

Fuller Craft Museum

Focused entirely on craft, this museum highlights material experimentation, skilled making, and innovation—an especially inspiring space if you’re drawn to design, furniture, or fiber. One of my amazing professors has a work they recently purchased from her on show right now at the Fuller Craft Museum!

Neighborhood Art Districts & Community Spaces

SoWa Art + Design District 

SoWa is a hub for galleries, open studios, and pop-up exhibitions. Strolling here always leads to unexpected discoveries and some really incredible conversations!

Neighborhood Open Studios

Jamaica Plain, Roxbury, Hyde Park, and Allston all host welcoming open-studio events throughout the year where you can meet artists, see works in progress, and explore neighborhood creative communities. I've loved going to them in order to peek into some awesome artists' studios, but also because it's a wonderful opportunity to really become embedded in Boston's art scene and community.

Make + Mend

A secondhand art and craft supply store that’s beloved among students, especially fiber artists. It’s where I often go with friends to pick up yarn or cord for chair-seat weaving—it's so perfect for affordable materials and creative experimentation.