Alpharetta’s “The Visitor” is a statue of a bear with the word “hello” written in many languages; it personifies the city’s welcoming nature.
By Jennifer McKee
With its lively arts scene and a community full of makers, artists, musicians and other creative folk, Alpharetta, Georgia is less than three hours from Augusta and the perfect place to feel the arts vibe pulse. Let your senses guide you through the number of ways to experience the city.
Sense of Sight
Alpharetta is full of engaging galleries as diverse as its residents. Chic Evolution in Art showcases emerging talent from throughout the world in paintings, blown glass, sculptures and thought-provoking works across all mediums. Othels Art features contemporary original and custom artwork from its student portfolios; art lessons are also available. And Oya Art Gallery, Alpharetta’s newest, focuses on American modern and contemporary art, but has its roots in the Western European tradition.
Sense of Touch
Ever wanted to try your hand at decorating your very own plate, bowl or figurine? Let the creativity flow at All Fired Up and the Artrageous Potter, which lets you paint, pattern and personalize a clay piece from their inventories, and will glaze and fire it for you. Enjoy a glass of wine while you create your masterpiece at Painting With a Twist. You can even rent out an artist’s studio for your private art party at the Treehouse at Sis + Moon’s.
Sense of Sound
It wouldn’t be summer without music outdoors, and Alpharetta more than obliges. Music’s biggest acts all seem to make a stop at the Ameris Bank Ampitheatre, but there’s plenty of homegrown talent to be heard as well. Matilda’s Music Under the Pines features eclectic regional acts in a delightful setting. The Velvet Note is Georgia’s favorite spot for great jazz in intimate surroundings. Grab a blanket, a picnic basket and the entire family for a great night of free tunes at Home by Dark at Brooke Street Park.
Senses of Taste and Smell
Alpharetta is known for its happening events schedule, and 2021 promises a great lineup. Don’t miss the Alpharetta Farmers Market, where local farmers and makes sell their wares, fruit, veggies, natural meats, local honey, jellies and soaps among them. Love a good food truck? Then this summer pop-up is for you. Alpharetta’s scenic walking trails pair nicely with craft beer—try the Trails & Ales mash-up on for size.
Click here for a full list of Alpharetta events.
Of course, no one sense is in play when seeking out the arts. The Alpharetta Arts Center not only has rotating arts exhibits and working studios but a black-box theater space and a baby grand piano on its porch. Discover community theater at its best at ACT1. Finally, take a self-guided tour through the city’s ever-growing public art pieces on the Downtown Alpharetta Arts Walking Tour.
