Have you ever walked around Woodstock, and sensed the creative energy? It’s not just a place, it’s an art canvas. Every corner, from rustic barns and modern lofts tells a tale. Who are these storytellers, you ask? Who are the storytellers?

Emily. Emily has been painting since over 20 years. It’s an old barn, with beams and creaky floors that speak of history. Emily’s paintings often feature rolling hills, vibrant skies and the charm of her charming town. She laughed and said, “Why not? She laughed and said, “Why? “They’re constantly changing and always surprising.”

Jake is a man who has the ability to transform a wall from a blank canvas into an amazing masterpiece in a matter of hours. Seen all around town, his murals each one is more captivating than the next. A coffee shop was painted with folklore scenes. Many people still come to admire his paintings while drinking their lattes.

Sarah, have you ever met her? Sarah is a portrait artist who does not do the usual ones. She paints everything from historical figures to pets, and each portrait is full of personality. Sarah’s art studio is filled with the scent of turpentine, creativity and turpentine.

Ben is another abstract artist who’s works make you think twice, or even three times! The artist’s use of form and color challenges the viewer and opens up endless possibilities. Ben told me once that he enjoys hearing people’s interpretations of his art because they are never the ones he had in mind.

Woodstock’s art scene doesn’t just happen in studios or galleries. It also spills onto the streets and into parks. Each summer there is an art fair, where artists set up booths to display their latest works. You can talk to artists and ask them about their creative inspiration. If you feel brave, you may even try haggling over the price.

You’ll be surprised at how friendly and supportive the community is. The artists here don’t compete; they are comrades in arms fighting to bring beauty into everyday life. The artists share techniques and materials with each other, sometimes collaborating on a project.

Laura and Mike, for example, teamed up together last year to create a series mixed media pieces that combined oil painting with elements of digital technology. It was stunning! The result was nothing short of spectacular!

Let’s get into the details. Finding these artists can be like searching for treasures without a map, but that’s all part of it! Many local cafes display the work of emerging artists who are looking to gain exposure and maybe even some extra money. Next time you go to get a coffee, keep an eye out for something special.

You’ll find a wide variety of artists in Woodstock, both well-known and new. The Art House Gallery is a great place to start.

Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation either! The majority of artists enjoy talking about their work, whether they’re discussing brush technique or debating what shade of blue captures the twilight sky over Catskill Mountains best–they have stories to tell!

Next time you hear someone talk about Woodstock, don’t just think of music festivals and hippie vibes. It is also the home to many talented painters that bring character & color alive before us!

Every stroke is worth listening to, even if it takes a little effort.