Housed in the historic Emerson School building in the heart of the Concord Center Cultural District, The Umbrella Community Arts Center has, for decades, been a buzzing creative hub for the town. This September, following a complete renovation and expansion of the center, The Umbrella reopens as a contemporary arts complex that expands capacity for artists, students, performers, and audiences throughout Greater Boston and the Metro West region. Highlights of the new programming include:
ARTISTS – The Studio Arts Program provides affordable, collegial workspace for studio artists in a wide variety of mediums. The studios have now been completely updated and the brand-new Makerspace has everything artists need to bring their vision to life, from fabrication and digital labs, to a fully equipped workshop.
STUDENTS – The Arts Education Program brings expert-led classes, workshops, camps, and drop-in and private art parties for anyone who’d like to learn to be creative – toddler through adult. Come learn painting, fiber arts, metalcraft, dance, ceramics, and more. Let The Umbrella help reveal your inner artist.
Photos: Marian Stanton; Brianna Gately; Christine Diaz; Nick Warchol; Drumlin Farm; Umbrella Volunteers
VISUAL ARTS ENTHUSIASTS - The Visual Arts Program hosts a series of creative, evocative, and sometimes controversial exhibitions. You can join the artists for gallery openings, talks, art markets, and more.
THEATER GOERS - Since 2012, the Performing Arts Program has staked a claim as one of the region’s most well-regarded and award-decorated producers of “Bold, Daring, and Innovative” community theater. This year, The Umbrella Stage Company debuted as Greater Boston’s newest professional theater, with an expanded season of shows in two newly constructed, cutting-edge mainstage and black box theaters. The Program also presents a concert series (recent headliners include Natalie Merchant, Sara Bareilles, and Lyle Lovett), films, and other community functions.
ART MEETS NATURE - Some of The Umbrella’s best-known public art installations and celebrations take place throughout Concord and surrounding towns – many offered through its distinctive Arts & Environment Program. The Musketaquid Earth Day Parade and seasonal Solstice Festivals at The Old Manse are cherished town traditions. From Sep 1-Nov 1, The Umbrella will present site-specific outdoor exhibits, Art Ramble, and more.
With the motto #DiscoverYourArts, The Umbrella invites visitors to (re)connect with the creative community in its new, open, and welcoming space. Join us on Sept. 14 for our Open House and learn more about the new Umbrella Community Arts Center complex and programs. For more information, please visit TheUmbrellaArts.org.