"The Maples," created by Natalie Jeremijenko; photo by Beyond My Ken (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY-SA 4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0)], via Wikimedia Commons Tree-mancipation Day!
"The Maples," created by Natalie Jeremijenko; photo by By Beyond My Ken via Wikimedia Commons

Free! Sometimes with Benefits!

No doubt about it, museums are expensive. In the Berkshires we live in an area where culture is a primary industry and museums are a major segment of that industry. Everyone tells us, from healthcare professionals to educators, that art is great for you and your family—and it is. But…how can you participate or be part of this community if you can’t visit these institutions?

Each month the Greylock Glass will highlight free programs in our area and beyond. In addition to complimentary admission, usually free days go all out and include free activities for all ages. These events, in addition to the experience of their current exhibits, can also give you a window into the perks of signing up for a membership. Kind of like a free test drive—at least till summer.

MASS MoCA, 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams, MA

Free Day, Saturday, January 26. The galleries will be filled with art-making activities, lively discussion, and pop-up performance. Create some art, take a tour, catch some live music in the elevator, and learn about the history of our life on Marshall Street.

MountainOne and Berkshire Gas sponsor free day.

January 26th curator talks are funded in part by Mass Humanities, which receives support from the Mass Cultural Council and is an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities.

Free on the 3s MASS MoCA is free to North Adams residents during the winter months on the 3rd of each month. Just bring identification or a utility bill to prove residency.

MASS MoCA is always free to MCLA/Williams students and children under 6. Kidspace is always free and the ARTBAR is open on weekends and during school break.

Almost Free

MASS MoCA participates in a program enabling Massachusetts EBT cardholders to receive a discounted museum admission of $2 and free admission for children under the age of 18 in their household during regular museum hours.

MASS MoCA does not process EBT. Cash or other payment must be provided for admission. A valid Massachusetts EBT card must be presented to receive discounted admission. This discount program is being offered in collaboration with the Massachusetts Cultural Council and the Executive Office of Health and Human Services’ Department of Transitional Assistance.

The Clark Art Institute, 225 South St. Williamstown MA

Stone Hill, viewed across the reflecting pool at the Clark Art Institute (photo, Tucker Bair)
Stone Hill, viewed across the reflecting pool at the Clark Art Institute (photo, Tucker Bair)

First Sundays of the month. Programs usually include guided tours of exhibitions, educational activities, lectures, activities based in the Clark’s stunning campus and surrounding landscape. The Clark Art Institute free Sundays is possible thanks to the support of Officers & Employees of Allen & Company IncBersk

The Clark is also free on a regular basis to students, children under 18, and members.

Williams College Museum of Art, 15 Lawrence Hall Dr. Williamstown, MA

Williams College Museum of Art, otherwise known as WCMA is always free and has convenient parking in the horseshoe in front of the museum. Exhibitions range from selections from the collection to innovative contemporary work. On occasion events such as openings or performances are available to the public.

Sara Farrell Okamura

Sara Farrell Okamura, a resident of North Adams, is an artist, arts educator, and writer.

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