Pendleton Art Center
A massive former shoe factory housing over 200 artists, offering a vibrant hub for creativity and community in Cincinnati.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Final Friday event
Pendleton Art Center
Best Time
Final Friday event
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A massive former shoe factory housing over 200 artists, offering a vibrant hub for creativity and community in Cincinnati.
"The Pendleton Art Center is a gem, loaded with artists of all types across eight floors!"
🎯 Plan for Final Friday
Don't miss the last Friday of the month for the full experience with open studios, music, and snacks!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be exploring 8 floors, so comfortable footwear is a must for navigating the building.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Final Friday Art Walk
Entire Building & Annex
Experience the electric atmosphere of over 200 artists opening their studios for a monthly celebration of art and community.
Artist Studios
Various Floors
Discover diverse art forms from painting and sculpture to pottery and illustration, directly from the creators.
Annex Gallery Exhibitions
Annex Building
Explore timely and socially relevant exhibitions featuring local and international artists, including unique projects.
Clay Alliance Gallery
4th Floor
See the work of over 150 local clay artists, often with delightful snacks and wine available during events.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Don't Miss Final Friday
Explore All Eight Floors
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Plan for Final Friday
Don't miss the last Friday of the month for the full experience with open studios, music, and snacks!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be exploring 8 floors, so comfortable footwear is a must for navigating the building.
🚗 Valet Parking Available
Valet parking is often offered during Final Friday events for convenience.
🤝 Connect with Artists
Chat with the artists, learn about their process, and even purchase unique pieces directly.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Plan for Final Friday
Don't miss the last Friday of the month for the full experience with open studios, music, and snacks!
👟 Wear Comfy Shoes
You'll be exploring 8 floors, so comfortable footwear is a must for navigating the building.
🚗 Valet Parking Available
Valet parking is often offered during Final Friday events for convenience.
🤝 Connect with Artists
Chat with the artists, learn about their process, and even purchase unique pieces directly.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Some studios offer complimentary drinks during events, and it can get warm inside.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Pendleton Art Center, especially during the vibrant Final Friday events, praising the incredible diversity of art and the opportunity to connect directly with over 200 artists. While the building's size and occasional warmth can be noted, the overall experience is highly valued as a unique artistic gem in Cincinnati.
"Final Friday was very fun! 8 floors of artists who produce a great variety of art. It can get quite hot with only some studios having A/C. There is an elevator but most people take the stairs."
Emma Correia
"This is a gem of a place. The eight floors and the annex are loaded with artists of all types. The building use to be a shoe factory before it became an art gallery. On the last Friday of the month-Final Friday is the monthly art show for the building. Many of the studios will have snacks for this event. You can talk to the artists. In the warmer months there are food trucks and music. Valet parking. The individual studios are open by making arrangements with the artists between Final Friday showings. There are locally owned restaurants nearby. I take art lessons here. It’s a special place."
Bowmanlaurapiper
"Visited the Clay Alliance gallery on the 4th floor! 25 local Clay artists represented the larger 150 member Clay Alliance! Yummy snacks and wine while checking out some beautiful clay art!"
Karan Witham-Walsh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Pendleton Art Center is located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It's accessible by car, and during Final Friday events, valet parking is often available. Public transportation options may also serve the Over-the-Rhine (OTR) area where it's located.
Yes, valet parking is frequently offered during Final Friday events. Street parking may also be available in the surrounding Over-the-Rhine neighborhood, but can be competitive.
Yes, individual studios can often be visited by making arrangements directly with the artists. It's best to check individual artist social media or websites for their specific hours.
The building has eight floors plus an annex. While there is an elevator, many visitors choose to take the stairs to explore all the levels. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended.
The Pendleton Art Center is located in the Over-the-Rhine (OTR) neighborhood, which is served by various bus routes. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient options. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General admission to the Pendleton Art Center, especially during Final Friday events, is typically free. Some special exhibitions or events might have a separate charge.
Final Friday events usually run from 5 PM to 9 PM on the last Friday of each month. It's always a good idea to confirm the exact hours closer to the date.
Absolutely! The Pendleton Art Center is a working studio space, and purchasing art directly from the artists is encouraged and a great way to support them.
Yes, Final Friday is the main monthly event. Additionally, the Annex Gallery hosts various exhibitions, and individual artists may host their own shows or workshops.
No, tickets are generally not required for Final Friday. It's an open-house style event where you can freely explore the studios.
🎫 🎨 Onsite Experience
You'll find an incredibly diverse range of art, including paintings, sculptures, pottery, illustrations, abstract art, and more, created by over 200 resident artists.
Definitely! Final Friday offers a unique and engaging atmosphere for a date night, with art to explore, often music, and a lively community vibe.
Yes, the Pendleton Art Center is located in the Over-the-Rhine (OTR) neighborhood, which has many locally owned restaurants and breweries nearby.
The Annex Gallery is a 4,000 sq ft space within the Pendleton Art Center compound that hosts timely and socially relevant exhibitions by local and international artists.
Some artists at the Pendleton Art Center offer art lessons or workshops. It's best to inquire directly with individual artists or check their schedules.
📸 📸 Photography
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in the common areas and studios, but it's always polite to ask the artist before taking photos of their specific work.
The diverse studios themselves, the vibrant art on display, and the bustling atmosphere during Final Friday offer many great photo opportunities. Look for interesting textures and colors. +1
While personal photography is usually fine, commercial photography or filming may require prior permission. Always respect the artists' work and space.
It's best to ask the artist for permission before photographing them while they are actively working. Some may be happy to oblige, while others prefer privacy.
Lighting varies by studio. Some have excellent natural light, while others may have artificial lighting. Be prepared to adjust your camera settings accordingly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the building has eight floors, consider focusing on the lower floors or utilizing the elevator if navigating stairs with very young children is a concern. Some artists may offer interactive elements or demonstrations. It's also a great opportunity to discuss art and creativity in a relaxed, accessible environment.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors
Beyond Final Friday, consider reaching out to artists whose work you admire to schedule private viewings. This allows for a more in-depth conversation about their artistic journey and the specific pieces you're interested in. The Annex Gallery also presents curated exhibitions that are worth exploring for their thematic depth and artistic merit.
👫 Couples Looking for a Unique Date
Many artists provide a welcoming environment, and some even offer complimentary drinks or snacks, adding to the festive mood. The diverse range of art ensures there's always something new to see and discuss, making for a memorable evening. Afterwards, explore the many restaurants and breweries in the surrounding Over-the-Rhine neighborhood for a complete night out.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Final Friday
It's more than just an art show; it's a community gathering. You can chat with painters about their techniques, admire the intricate details of sculptures, and even find unique pottery pieces. Some studios, like the Clay Alliance gallery, are known for offering wine and snacks, making the experience even more enjoyable. The Annex Gallery also hosts special exhibitions during Final Friday, adding another layer of artistic discovery.
For visitors, Final Friday is the ultimate way to experience the Pendleton Art Center. It offers a chance to see a vast array of art, meet the creators, and soak in the dynamic spirit of Cincinnati's art community. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as you'll likely be exploring multiple floors!
A World of Art Under One Roof
Visitors can discover a wide spectrum of artistic disciplines. From the detailed portraiture and vibrant paintings showcased by artists like @drawn2mike and @kathryngroob, to the intricate ceramic sculptures by @gandzpottery, the variety is astounding. You might find abstract expressionism, detailed nature scenes, or contemporary pieces, ensuring there's something to captivate every art enthusiast.
Exploring the Pendleton Art Center is an adventure in itself. While an elevator is available, many visitors enjoy the journey up the stairs, discovering new studios and artists on each level. This expansive space allows for a deep dive into the local art scene, offering a chance to not only view but also purchase original artwork directly from the artists.
The Annex Gallery: Beyond the Studios
Since 2017, the Annex has been a hub for unique projects, including their Cuban art exchange program. The exhibitions here often push boundaries and engage with contemporary issues, offering a more curated and focused viewing experience compared to the open studios. Visitors can expect thought-provoking displays that complement the broader artistic offerings of the main building.
During Final Friday, the Annex Gallery is a must-visit. It provides an opportunity to see a different facet of the Pendleton Art Center's artistic programming, showcasing curated collections that are both impactful and memorable.
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