Woodstock is a creative hub. This is not a small town, but a huge canvas. The corners of every building, be it rustic barns or lofts with modern decor, tell a different story. The storytellers are… Woodstock’s painters, that is.

Emily. She has been painting for more than 20 years. The studio, an old farm with creaky beams and floors that whisper history is in a barn. Emily’s art often includes rolling hills and vivid skies that capture the essence this charming city. When I first met her, she told me that landscapes were what she was interested in. She chuckled and asked, “Why?” It’s always something new, and they are always surprised.”

Jake is another artist who transforms a blank surface into an instant masterpiece. There are many of his amazing murals scattered around the town. Each one is even more impressive than before. In one instance, he painted the whole side of a cafe with local folklore. Some people go there to enjoy their lattes and marvel at the artist’s work.

Sarah – Have you seen her work? She is not an ordinary portraitist. The subjects she paints are diverse, ranging from dogs to historic figures. They all have a lot of personality. Sarah’s creative studio has a strong scent that is both turpentine-like and creative.

Ben’s abstract art will have you thinking twice or three times. It’s his color choices and forms that challenge perceptions, and open up for endless interpretations. Ben has told me that it is always interesting to hear what others see when they look at his work, because it was never intended.

Woodstock has a vibrant art scene that extends beyond studios, galleries, and even into the parks and streets. The summer brings an annual art fair at which artists display their work. This is like walking around an open air museum. You can ask artists questions about their work and haggle prices, if that’s what you want to do.

The community’s support is something you are sure to notice. Here, artists are not rivals; instead they fight together for the beauty of everyday life. Sometimes they even work together on projects. They exchange tips, share suppliers of materials, and recommend techniques.

Laura and Mike, as an example, worked together on a collection of mixed-media works combining digital with oil paintings last year. The outcome was spectacular. They drew crowds eager to find out what the excitement was all about.

We’ll get down to the nitty gritty now: Finding talented people can feel like searching for hidden treasures, without any map. But that’s half the fun. Local cafes frequently display artwork by young artists hoping to get some exposure, and perhaps some additional cash. Be on the lookout for unusual things when you next grab a cup of coffee.

The Art House Gallery, located downtown in Woodstock has a plethora of incredible art from established and emerging artists.

You shouldn’t fear striking up conversation! Artists love to talk shop, regardless of whether you’re debating brush techniques or which shade best represents the Catskill Mountains in the evening sky. They’ve got plenty of stories.

Woodstock’s not only about hippie music and festivals, but also many artists who are talented enough to bring the colors & characters of Woodstock alive in our own eyes.

Keep in mind that every stroke tells a tale, and it’s worth the effort to uncover these stories despite daily hustle.