In minutes, we can cross a bridge, drive down a winding road, or dart onto side streets to engage with neighboring artists. These local creatives in our backyards are committed to working together to level up the artistic vibe blossoming here in Akron.

Over the years, our city has gradually transitioned from abandoned manufacturing factories to artistic hubs. As lovers of art passionate about showing people how important art is for a community, it’s exciting to witness new cultural exchanges among longtime and new residents of Akron.

The recent surge of pop-up shops, meet-ups, and other social media ideas has opened the door for more simple but effective ways for artisans to share their works.

Different neighborhoods are now inspired to reimagine the essence of quaint galleries and coffee shops where local artisans can gather. More communities are addressing the desire for public art to enhance the landscape of their neighborhoods and the city. Old buildings reminiscent of Akron’s industrial past are now repurposed to house masterful creations from their communities. 

Up the hill on the north side of Akron, People’s Park has set a standard for changing the hard landscapes of old Akron into an inviting hub for the entire community to enjoy. Transforming a backyard and parking lot into an outdoor venue allows artists to share their voices and cultures. 

East Ave Market & Gallery, a family-owned business in Kenmore, is just one of many establishments stoking love for the art scene. When you enter its doors, you’re welcomed with all sorts of handmade items, art, and delicious baked goods. Exhibitions of local artists and musicians and good conversations are common. Drop in, and there’s no doubt you’ll be inspired.

Here at Art Only Boutique, we’re noticing that our neighbors, like the East Ave Market & Gallery in the Kenmore neighborhood and North Hill CDC’s People’s Park in the Northside neighborhood, are connecting the creative dots. They’re reaching across borders to share their ideas, their diverse styles, and the common goal of building a stronger art community for our city. 

Art Only Boutique is a mother-and-daughter team blending our unique styles of painting and teaching. We’ve had the opportunity to exhibit our artwork in some of these hubs and collaborate with our fellow artists on different events. We’re thrilled to strongly advocate for this growing art scene in Akron.

At the end of the day, there’s so much to explore just around the corner from your home. We’re experiencing more intimate concerts, festivals and ethnic culinary delights. Neighborhoods have expanded their portfolio of mixed artistic vibes, with folks engaging in great conversation just a few steps or a short drive away.

Dara Harper is a columnist for Signal Akron. She is a creative entrepreneur, artist and educator. She graduated from the University of Akron with a Master's in Curriculum & Instruction and a Bachelor's in Studio Art. As an artist, Dara has public art installed in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, downtown Cuyahoga Falls, and the West Side of Akron. Engaging the community and spaces through art is part of her purpose as an artist. Dara is uniquely driven to use art to advocate, create conversations and develop meaningful relationships that will positively impact her community. She is co-founder and lead of the Akron Black Artist Guild, winner of the 2021 Knight Arts Challenge. Dara Harper is listed with the Black Cube Collective for Black women abstract painters and actively serves on the Sojourner Truth Legacy Plaza Education Committee.

Diane L. Johnson is a columnist for Signal Akron. She is an Akron-based artist, co-founder of the Akron Black Artist Guild and retired administrative secretary from the Copley-Fairlawn City Schools. Her passion for art is second nature - she creates original paintings, drawings, and mixed media pieces. She also enjoys writing devotions and short stories and instructing workshops. Diane's artwork displays soulful acrylic paintings and illustrations showcasing her passion for modern abstract and impressionist inspirations. Her figurative works of women depict the simple joys of living.