The Best Art Galleries and Events in Nashville TN

Explore the heart of Nashville's art scene by learning about the city's top galleries, captivating events, and mesmerizing public art.

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The Best Art Galleries and Events in Nashville TN

Posted by Gary Ashton on Monday, February 5th, 2024 at 9:53am.

The Best Art Galleries in Nashville Tennessee

The steady rise in visitors to and new residents living in Nashville has contributed to its ascension as a truly cosmopolitan city. From its world-renowned live music scene to award-winning restaurants and bars, Nashville is now mentioned among the biggest and most famous cities in the nation. A slightly lesser-known product of Nashville's decades-long evolution is its thriving art scene. From art galleries to museums and from Old Masters to unique public art, Nashville has something for casual art fans and art experts alike.

Visit Nashville's Art Galleries

In addition to the city's large, established museums, Nashville is home to dozens of smaller art galleries. The city's galleries feature various styles of art and allow visitors to see the work of both established and up-and-coming artists. Some of Nashville's up-and-coming and established galleries include:

  • Modfellows Art Gallery
  • OZ Arts Nashville
  • David Lusk Gallery
  • Richland Fine Art
  • Tinney Contemporary

Some of the can't-miss galleries include the Dan Dion Gallery and Zeitgeist.

Dan Dion Gallery

At the Dan Dion Gallery, located on the edge of The Gulch community, visitors can see portraits of dozens of famous musicians, actors, and comedians. The photos cover over 30 years of history, many captured while Dion was the house photographer at San Francisco's Fillmore Auditorium.

Zeitgeist

The Zeitgeist Gallery in the Wedgewood/Houston neighborhood has been a staple of Nashville's art scene since 1994. The museum features the work of both new and established area artists. One of the most unique aspects of this gallery is that visitors can find many up-and-coming artists who are trying to break out while also viewing the work of renowned artists who have been proudly creating work in the region for many years. Most of the work on display in the Zeitgeist gallery would best be described as contemporary art, and collectors will enjoy the fact that there are many mediums located in a space that oozes creativity.

Discover Nashville's Public Art

Street Art in Nashville TN

Some of Nashville's most stunning art isn't hanging on a gallery wall. Sculptures, murals, and other public artworks are out in the open throughout the city.

The city of Nashville has designated 178 permanent public artworks as part of its Public Art Collection. Some of the works commemorate Nashville's musical contributions. The Musica statue is located in the center of Music Row and features nine dancing figures. Nearby, you'll find a statue of country record producer Owen Bradley at his piano. Bradley is credited as a key player in the development of the famous Nashville Sound.

The area is also home to a number of vibrant murals. If you visit Capital City Computers, be sure to walk around the building to see the large murals painted on three sides. The mural on the Legends Corner bar in the heart of downtown features all manner of big-name stars, with the intention of being added to over time. In Salemtown, check out a massive mural on The Local Distro. The mural was created by a group of 34 youth artists led by local painter Omari Booker.

Many of Nashville’s most walkable neighborhoods, such as downtown, Midtown, and Germantown, have public artwork for you to explore as you’re out and about.

First Saturday Art Crawl

On the first Saturday of every month from 5:00–8:00 p.m., the top art galleries in the neighborhoods of Downtown Nashville host receptions for the public. Socialization and art openings are on tap—as are free refreshments at participating galleries. The featured galleries can change from month to month, so you'll need to keep coming back to avoid missing any of the city's best art!  

Downtown Franklin Art Crawl

Heading to one of Nashville's best suburbs, the Downtown Franklin Art Crawl happens on the first Friday of every month from 6:00–9:00 p.m. Local Williamson County artists line the downtown streets and buildings to showcase and sell their works. In addition to art, visitors to the crawl can enjoy live music and refreshments.

Nashville Art Galleries that You Have to See

First Thursday ArtWalk

Another popular art event in the greater Nashville area is provided by the city of Clarksville. The ArtWalk, first held in 2009, happens on the first Thursday of every month. Many local artists and restaurants participate in this event and provide plenty of local art for all to enjoy.

Nashville's Growing Art Scene

An increasing number of the top things to do in Nashville revolve around the arts. Nashville's vibrant art scene is a testament to the city's rich cultural tapestry, offering an eclectic mix of galleries, events, and public art that beckons art lovers and casual observers alike. From the prestigious galleries showcasing contemporary masterpieces to the dynamic street art transforming urban landscapes, Nashville provides a canvas where creativity knows no bounds. As Nashville continues to cultivate its artistic identity, it stands as a beacon for those seeking to immerse themselves in a world where art is not just observed but lived.

 

Gary Ashton

The Ashton Real Estate Group of RE/MAX Advantage

The #1 RE/MAX team in the World!

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