CONNECTED PEOPLE

Rochester, New York, is home to a vibrant arts scene, brimming with diverse galleries that showcase both contemporary and traditional art forms. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a casual visitor, or a local looking to explore your creative side, the galleries in and around Rochester offer something for everyone. From cutting-edge exhibits to classic masterpieces, you’ll find a wealth of talent on display across the city. Here’s a guide to some of the must-visit art galleries in the Rochester area.

 

1. The Memorial Art Gallery (MAG)

Location: 500 University Ave, Rochester, NY 14607
The Memorial Art Gallery is a cornerstone of Rochester’s art scene. As the region’s largest art museum, MAG boasts a stunning collection of over 12,000 works of art. It features everything from American and European masterpieces to contemporary art, photography, and decorative arts. With rotating exhibitions and a beautiful sculpture garden, MAG is a must-visit for any art lover.
Website: https://mag.rochester.edu/

2. The Rochester Contemporary Art Center (RoCo)

Location: 137 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14604
Known for its focus on contemporary art, RoCo features dynamic exhibitions by both regional and national artists. The gallery provides an ever-changing space for innovative art installations, performances, and community events. It’s a hub for local creative talent and a great place to experience the cutting edge of modern art.
Website: https://www.rochestercontemporary.org/

3. The Visual Studies Workshop (VSW)

Location: 31 Prince Street, Rochester, NY 14607
The Visual Studies Workshop (VSW) is a unique space that blends photography, film, and multimedia arts. Its art walk showcases experimental and conceptual works from local and international artists, often reflecting themes of identity, culture, and social change. If you’re looking for something unconventional and thought-provoking, this is the gallery to visit.
Website: https://www.vsw.org/

4. Main Street Arts

Location: 513 West Main Street, Clifton Springs, NY 14432
Just a short drive from Rochester, Main Street Arts in Clifton Springs offers a serene environment for appreciating art. This gallery specializes in regional art and features rotating exhibitions of fine art and craft, with an emphasis on contemporary works. The intimate space allows visitors to engage with the art in a relaxed and personal setting.
Website: https://mainstreetartsgallery.com/

5. The Gallery at the Arts and Cultural Council for Greater Rochester

Location: 277 N. Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607
The Arts and Cultural Council’s gallery is a key venue for artists from Rochester and the Finger Lakes region. This gallery provides a platform for a variety of artistic expressions, from fine art and photography to installations and performances. It’s a space that fosters community engagement and supports emerging artists in the area.
Website: https://artsrochester.org/

6. Gallerie 304

Location: 304 N. Goodman Street, Rochester, NY 14607
Gallerie 304 is a contemporary gallery dedicated to showcasing modern art in various media. It is located in the Neighborhood of the Arts and offers a space for innovative works by local and regional artists. From paintings to sculptures to interactive installations, Gallerie 304 presents new perspectives on art and culture.
Website: https://gallerie304.com/

7. The Little Theatre Gallery

Location: 240 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14604
The Little Theatre Gallery is a perfect blend of art and cinema. Located inside the historic Little Theatre, this gallery features local artists and their works in a variety of styles. It’s an intimate setting for discovering fresh new talent while also enjoying a film in one of the city’s most beloved independent theaters.
Website: https://thelittle.org/

8. The Gallery at City Hall

Location: 30 Church Street, Rochester, NY 14614
Located in the heart of downtown Rochester, the Gallery at City Hall features rotating art exhibitions that highlight the creativity of local artists. This public gallery offers an accessible venue for the community to experience high-quality art, with exhibits that range from visual arts to photography and sculpture.
Website: https://www.cityofrochester.gov/

9. ARTISANworks

Location: 565 Blossom Road, Rochester, NY 14610
ARTISANworks is one of the most unique galleries in Rochester, offering an immersive art experience that blends traditional gallery exhibits with interactive, hands-on installations. The space is home to a variety of art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, and multimedia works. It’s a place where visitors can engage with the art and even create their own!
Website: https://www.artisanworks.net/

10. High Falls Gallery

Location: 1000 University Ave, Rochester, NY 14607
Situated in the historic High Falls district, this gallery is dedicated to presenting fine art in an industrial space. The High Falls Gallery features local artists working in a variety of mediums, from photography to paintings, and also hosts community events and artist receptions. It’s a great spot to explore new art while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of this revitalized part of the city.
Website: https://highfallsgallery.com/