ART, COMMUNITY AND CULTURE

The annual Newburyport ArtWalk is a citywide celebration of art, community and discovery. Taking place over four weekends in 2014, including June 19 and 20, this self-guided walking tour takes visitors to open house festivities at 17 galleries, five cafes and a historic inn.

Newburyport is a classic maritime seaport whose history includes everything from fishing and shipbuilding to silverware manufacturing and rum distilling. Today, it is a cultural center that attracts a diverse group of artists, performers and craftsmen to Boston’s beautiful north shore.

In the summertime, though the streets bustle with activity, Newburyport encourages young and old to slow down and enjoy the small pleasures. Visitors stroll the bricked sidewalks and wide boardwalk, watching street performers and enjoying frozen treats from Gram’s Homemade Ice Cream (40 State St.) or Dolce Freddo Gelato (38 Market Sq.).

One of the finest pleasures in Newburyport is exploring the city’s many art galleries, and ArtWalk is the perfect way to start that adventure. From landscapes to dreamscapes, Newburyport’s galleries have something for everyone. Classic, contemporary, even comical, the artworks cover a broad array of styles and sensibilities.

Jamie Wallace