Arts & Culture

On a cold winter’s day in 1982, Loring Wilkins Coleman (1918-2015) embarked on one of his favorite activities: driving around Massachusetts to look at old barns and houses. On the recommendation of his son Andrew, Coleman went to the town of Sterling in search of a “superb grouping of buildings,” and struck gold. “It was indeed one of the most handsome New England farms I had ever seen,” recalled Coleman. It took ten days to complete a detailed pencil drawing of the farm buildings, but it wasn’t until 2003 that Coleman finished his painting of the view. 

Meet Concord artists Jonathan Macadam, painter, and Martha Wallace, ceramicist.

Throughout history, people have turned to art for inspiration, solace, escape, and healing. Scientific studies around the world have confirmed what artists and art lovers have instinctively known: art has the power to heal. In fact, the National Library of Medicine reports more than 23,000 articles on the topic of art therapy have been published in the past 10 years. 

Concordian and self-taught sculptor Elisa Adams began sculpting in 2004. Her work is exhibited worldwide as well as in national museums and galleries, and she has won numerous awards. A practicing chiropractor for 35 years, she sees art and the healing process going hand in hand. “Art is so important in the healing process that in my office I have a rotating gallery for my patients to enjoy.” The main comment from my patients is, “I feel so peaceful from the moment I enter your clinic.” Elisa not only balances her professional life with art making, she is also the current President of the New England Sculptors Association. 

The most extensive Federal-era tea service Paul Revere’s shop ever produced is included in the exhibition, Beyond Midnight: Paul Revere and His Ride, at the Concord Museum. Made for John and Mehitable Templeman in 1792, the set includes a teapot, tea caddy, sugar bowl, and cream pot that are fluted in emulation of the fluted columns of classical antiquity. If the style of this tea set summons the ancient past, its manufacture conjures the industrial future.

Whether your loyalties lie with the King or the colonists, you can catch up with some of the best books on the subject this spring.

Discover what's happening in the arts this spring!

Curl up with a good book this winter.

The Concord Players trace their roots to Louisa May Alcott who, along with her sisters, founded the Concord Dramatic Union in 1857. The Alcotts performed their plays, many of them original, in the parlor of their home at Orchard House and in the homes of friends in the town. 

Art is everywhere in Concord. As the weather turns cold why not spend an afternoon at one of Concord’s extraordinary galleries and immerse yourself in the world of art? Nothing better to chase away the evening chill than a lively concert, a compelling film, or a stunning theatrical performance at one of our talent-filled theatres. And don’t miss the holiday markets at Concord Art, The Umbrella Arts Center, or the Three Stones Gallery. From unique gifts to something special for yourself, celebrate the season with art!

Change. The word resonates with possibilities. This year Earth Press Project: Witness is inviting people across America to answer the question: “What change would you like to witness on this Earth?”