In 1990, the purchase of an oil painting at the Newburyport Art on The Mall inspired the Beacon Hill Art Walk. Jennifer Mackay, great niece of one of the first women to attend the Boston Museum School, Laura Coombs Hill, was exhibiting her oils. Judy Avery of West Cedar Street bought one and offered a show at her home. This event was so popular that many artists and friends of the arts began thinking about a spring show in our gardens. The First Annual Beacon Hill Art Walk was held in June and had fifty artists and hundreds of art lovers in attendance.

The goal of the Beacon Hill Art Walk has always been to provide a venue for fine artists to sell their original work. Artists are advised to bring work to sell at a variety of prices. Many who come also make connections with gallery professionals, restaurateurs, and others who display their work.

As the years went on, the numbers of artists swelled to 160. Many artists return each year and refer other artists to the event. Artists attending range from those who make their living from their art to one neighbor who priced his work in the millions as he had no interest in selling any of it. Some show a few pieces while others have large displays.

We hope to continue to include more types and styles of art and encourage participation of artists from many backgrounds and disciplines.

The Beacon Hill Art Walk would not exist without the help of volunteers. Every year, a strong team of volunteers make sure everything is taken care off for the artists, musicians and visitors.

Click here to find out more and find out who is helping out.