As seen in the Needham Observer, April 23, 2025

The Needham Open Studios art exhibit celebrates its 25th anniversary May 3 and 4 across several locations in town, inviting the public to the vibrant arts community right in their own neighborhoods.

Run entirely by volunteer artists, the non-juried exhibition connects more than 35 creators to the Needham community, providing an opportunity to see artists’ creative processes in intimate spaces. Visitors can explore 11 locations, including three group spaces, featuring works across various media including painting, ceramics and performing arts.

Hilary Hanson Bruel, an NOS organizing committee member who creates abstract mixed media and encaustic paintings using heated wax, said she appreciates how the event connects the Needham community to local art.

Hilary Hanson Bruel with her work Evening Sun Credit: Hilary Hanson Bruel

“It’s a really nice opportunity to be out in the community with the work, as opposed to sitting alone in your studio,” Bruel said. “I really love it because all the people I see in my non-art life can come and see this art that I do, even though they know me in a different way.”

Throughout the weekend, visitors can watch demonstrations and participate in hands-on activities, while connecting with the artists, learning about their techniques and taking home original art.

Naomi Wilsey, a NOS board and organizing committee member who has worked as an artist for more than 30 years, will host hands-on art projects including making flower art on rice paper. Wilsey said it is important to make art accessible to the community. 

“Of course, it’s not bread and butter. It’s not feeding people,” Wilsey said. “But it feeds your soul, you know? And I think for that reason, it’s important.”

This year’s exhibit features new elements. Previously limited to artists who lived or worked in Needham or belonged to the Needham Art Association, NOS now welcomes artists from outside the community as long as they can find somewhere to exhibit, Wilsey said. 

Naomi Wilsey and her watercolor Respite/ Credit: Naomi Wilsey

Additionally, poetry stations will be at nine of the locations thanks to the Needham Poet Laureate Program, hosted by NOS President and Needham Poet Laureate Anne Nydam.

The North Hill location will showcase an intergenerational exhibit featuring works from North Hill Retirement Community residents and Needham High School students. Cheryl Clinton, who is organizing the gallery spaces at North Hill, is excited about the generational inclusivity.

“We have a very vibrant community, and I often think public perception of a 65-plus senior living community is not accurate,” Clinton said. “Many of our residents overall are extremely connected and active in the community, and the arts in particular, it’s a really strong focus. So it’s exciting to have that on view for the public.”

The grassroots event relies entirely on participating artists taking roles in organizing the weekend, including posting signs on lawns and distributing map brochures.

John Corliss, a Needham resident who has attended NOS the past six seasons, said he looks forward to the event every year.

“It’s one of the first things we put in our calendar,” Corliss said. “Needham Open Studios is a great thing, and hopefully it continues, because Needham is such a great community. It’s wonderful that it’s around.”

The free exhibit runs from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 3 and 4. The official brochure, including NOS artists and their locations, can be accessed here. 

This story is part of a partnership between the Needham Observer and the Boston University Department of Journalism.

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