Ten Things You Should Know About Real Art Ways
1. We’re unique
We have a reputation for exceptional programming, but it’s our relaxed vibe and inclusive environment that keep people coming back. The flow of people, art, and ideas makes RAW a comfortable place for people from different backgrounds to share experiences and create new memories.
2. We were founded in 1975
Real Art Ways started during a moment when alternative ideas were spreading across the country. A group of visual artists and musicians created a space to live and work. Later, RAW evolved into a non-profit organization with a mission to support innovative artists and connect people with new ideas.
3. We work with living artists
Unlike a traditional museum, we don’t have a permanent collection – new music, performance, and art always come through our doors. We present all kinds of creative expression and support new ideas, experiments, and risks.
4. We rely on our members
Individual support is crucial to our mission of supporting new and innovative art of all forms in Hartford. Members receive discounts to our events as thanks for literally making Real Art Ways possible. Are you a member yet?
5. We do more than one thing
Gallery exhibitions, independent cinema, innovative performances, social events, education programs, spoken word – you get the idea. Sign up for our weekly enews, and you’ll always know what we’re up to next.
6. Our building used to be a typewriter factory
Hartford has a lot of old industrial buildings – ours was an Underwood typewriter factory. Anybody remember typewriters?
7. We like it when you hang out here
People know us for our social events – like Creative Cocktail Hour – but you might not know that you can come here and just…be here. Come at a quiet time to be alone with the art, meet up with friends in the Loading Dock Lounge after a film, or just grab your laptop and show up for a change of scenery and free WiFi.
8. We want to hear from you
There’s a Yelp review that begins: “I have at least a few good stories that start with ‘Remember that time at Real Art Ways…’ If you can think of a few of your own, we want to hear them! Find us on Facebook or Twitter, email us or pick up the phone and call.
9. The art is for sale
Most of the art we show is for sale. If you see something you like, ask us about it.
10. And, well, you can drink in our movie theater
We offer wines and local beers. And as always, the popcorn is fresh and the butter is, appropriately, real.
