Rochester’s abundant art scene may start with the works created by local artists, but it’s the generous sharing of their art with the community and visitors that makes it truly thrive. There are many art galleries to visit in Rochester, NY that feature a variety of styles, so there’s bound to be something to please even the toughest art critic. And with Rochester’s First Fridays, visitors can gallery hop to experience many of these galleries in one evening.
Memorial Art Gallery
The Memorial Art Gallery (MAG) is Rochester’s civic art museum and has entertained art enthusiasts since 1913. With over 12,000 objects in its permanent collection and a rotating schedule of traveling exhibits, museum-goers can discover new artists upon each visit. The MAG also celebrates local artists each September with its annual Clothesline Festival.
Jembetat African Art Gallery
Located a few blocks from MAG is the Jembetat African Art Gallery. The space features art from West, Central, and East Africa, and includes ritual masks, bronze figures, statues, leather works, and jewelry.
ARTISANworks
Rochester’s ARTISANworks is Rochester’s unique gallery space, created by several interconnected renovated warehouses. Over 500,000 pieces span the 40,000 square foot space with styles covering everything from classic to modern art. ARTISANworks also rents its space for events, making it a unique venue for weddings and parties.
The George Eastman Museum
The George Eastman Museum is the world’s oldest photography museum and third largest film archive in the United States. Visitors can enjoy photo and camera galleries displaying items from the museum’s 4.5 million artifacts, view works from every major photographer throughout history, and tour the impressive house and gardens.
Flower City Arts Center
Located in a historic firehouse in the City of Rochester, Flower City Arts Center offers programs focused on the visual arts. Exhibitions at Flower City Arts regularly highlight the work of the center’s resident artists.
Image City Photography Gallery
In the heart of the Neighborhood of the Arts, you will find Image City Photography Gallery, a collaboration between multiple local photographers. The gallery features rotating photography exhibits, and high-quality photographs are also available for sale.
Pittsford Fine Art
Head to Pittsford Fine Art in the historic Pittsford Village to enjoy some of the area's best-known artistic talent. Shop the original art created by local artists to bring home a piece reminding you of your visit.
Rochester Contemporary Art Center
If modern art is more your style, the Rochester Contemporary Art Center (RoCo) is a non-profit gallery that has featured contemporary artists since 1977. Each Summer RoCo hosts 6x6, The International Small Art Phenomenon. The event features and sells 6x6 works of art donated by artists, celebrities, students, and community members, with the proceeds benefiting RoCo and the further development of the Rochester art scene.
The Yards Collective
After you make the rounds at the Rochester Public Market, grab a coffee from Java’s and head upstairs to visit the art displayed at The Yards Collective. The space acts as a supportive, creative outlet for Rochester’s art community, where artists discuss their ideas with one another and share their passions with the public.
The Hungerford
Also near the Rochester Public Market, The Hungerford offers studio space to local artists who share their art with the community. Original art and handcrafted items are also for sale, making it an ideal place to purchase a unique souvenir.
UUU Art Collective
Located in downtown Rochester, you will find UUU Art Collective, a collaborative art space with a mission of initiating encounters for cultural conversations. UUU features rotating exhibits from emerging artists.
Oxford Art Gallery
At the intersection of Oxford Street and Park Avenue in the City of Rochester is the Oxford Art Gallery, featuring contemporary and period art, along with rotating featured exhibits.
International Art Acquisitions
Discover International Art Acquisitions - one of Upstate New York's largest art galleries that features original paintings and master graphics.
