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The Nantucket identity is strongly linked to the island’s history of whaling and fishing, but the arts and artists have also been part of its life from the beginning of the 20th century. Many renowned artists called the island their home or summer retreat and inspiration, but the true transformation of Nantucket from a fishing village to an art center began in 1945 when The Artists' Association of Nantucket was established. The island opened its first gallery and received exhibitions on loan from the Metropolitan and the Whitney Museum, and Thornton Wilder and Tennessee Williams visited as guest speakers.

Today, the town has more than 20 galleries and numerous studios. The Artists Association of Nantucket is the driving force behind the year-round exhibitions at the Joyce & Seward Johnson Gallery, the historic AAN Permanent Collection maintenance, and a full schedule of art-related special events. The association also offers educational programs and workshops for children and adults.

Visual Arts Center, 24 Amelia Drive, 508-228-0722

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Nantucket Beaches Whaling Museum Sankaty Head Light Nantucket Shipwreck and Lifesaving Museum Nantucket Atheneum Nantucket Dreamland The Old Mill Cisco Brewers Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge Theatre Workshop of Nantucket Endeavour Sailing Excursions The Oldest House Moors End Farm Miacomet Golf Club The Artists' Association of Nantucket Brant Point Lighthouse Hadwen House Cru

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