In this hectic world we live in today, it is important to have spaces that ground and remind us of the interconnectedness we share with one another. That may entail your favorite local café, a preferred bookshop, or even seeing a just-released film. We all have our ways of letting out a deep breath and relaxing, and my favored way is visiting art galleries!

Art can tell a multitude of stories through only a single piece. The technique, history, and origin are original to every creation despite the medium, and to immerse yourself in art is to immerse yourself in culture. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy looking at intriguing pieces and trying to decipher their meaning? 

To top it off, there is a surplus of galleries in central Columbus deserving of recognition, all of which have incredible pieces, friendly staff, and occasionally live music and snacks. Below is a list of five amazing local galleries accessible through the COTA bus system that are also located near Columbus City parking meters (with FREE parking on Sundays!). Each of these galleries are vital to the Columbus art community and provide safe and open spaces for artists and viewers alike.

1. Sharon Weiss

This independently run gallery, flourishing for thirty-two years, is a longstanding staple to the Short North’s artist community. Founded by the exuberant Sharon Weiss, this expansive art collection showcases captivating creations. The art space itself is small yet mighty; an aroma of individuality lingers through each art piece. During my visit, Sharon Weiss had a wide arrangement of artworks to view, such as trinkets and landscape paintings, and Ms. Weiss was over the moon to share each piece's story. Sharon Weiss neighbors 12 Lincoln, an artists' boutique. 

The gallery regularly takes part in Short North gallery hops and curates solo-artist exhibitions, highlighting local artists from the community. Visitors and art enthusiasts can celebrate featured collections as well as purchase art. This gallery is a warm cup of tea and free for the public to drink.

Location: 20 E Lincoln St, Columbus, OH 43215

Take bus 2 to N High St & W Hubbard Ave.

2. 24 Lincoln Street Art Studios

A beloved historic home, termed “The Little Blue House,” Lincoln Street features open-studio space for women artists-in-residence. The house stands feet away from its parent gallery, Sharon Weiss, and the two work hand in hand to uplift the community artists. Cultivating a warm and delightful atmosphere, this studio is free for the public to explore and engage with the artists themselves. Each artist’s studio possesses a unique charm, and watching these creators in their element is more than inspiring.

While creating, guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the works and celebrate the house’s seventh year of supporting local artists. Moon Evans, a current resident, is an oil-based painter who creates breathtaking pieces with soft colors and vibrant light. Having the opportunity to speak with these artists while admiring their work was a lovely experience, especially when they're so welcoming. 

Location: 24 E. Lincoln St in the Short North Arts District

Take bus 2 to N High St & W Hubbard Ave.

3. Hawk Galleries

Founded in 1986, this multidisciplinary gallery exhibits breathtaking contemporary artworks belonging to a diverse range of art makers. Such artists include prominent glassblower Lino Tagliapietra; optical sculptor Christopher Ries; and Dale Chihuly, whose work is also presented at the Franklin Park Conservatory. The gallery collaborates with emerging Master of Fine Arts students at The Ohio State University, as well as independent artists around the world. A newfound appreciation of visual art awaits you in this gallery; it differs from neighboring galleries in the area with a vast display of assorted mediums, with a focus on glass and sculpture. 

A vibrant, red retro sign hangs from the gallery, inviting guests inside. Hawk Galleries is surrounded with open windows, allowing sunlight to mingle with the glassworks. While adventuring through the space, you are able to interact with the works' intricate details and can admire the precision of each piece up close. The current exhibition entails an assortment of animals, vases, and optical illusions.

Location: 153 E Main St, Columbus, OH 43215

Take bus 2 to E Main St & S 4th St.

4. Brandt Gallery

Brandt Gallery, founded by Ohio State graduate Michelle Brandt, presents multi-perspective contemporary works. Grounded in traditional subject matter and with varied societal narratives, the gallery space provides outlets for these expressions. The curated artworks evoke vivid and energetic feelings from piece to piece alongside two neighboring galleries: Chaos Contemporary Craft and Lindsay Gallery. The staff is knowledgeable on the lively artwork and the gallery’s mission to heal and transform the community through art-based expression. 

The exhibitions on view during my visit, Pecha Projects and False Meridian, combine meaningfulness and expressiveness to bring the works to life. The mosaic-like paintings and shining beaded tapestries create a story throughout Brandt. Offering a fresh twist on a contemporary gallery, a mini gallery hop awaits through these doors in this downtown art hub.

Location: 76 N High St, Columbus, OH 43215

Take bus 2 to N High St & W Russell St.

5. Open Door

Inspiring the collective, one artist at a time, this nonprofit gallery uplifts and advocates for artists with disabilities. Open Door showcases creators from all walks of life and values inclusivity in gallery spaces. Individualistic style flows from each piece exhibited, revealing the creators’ personal charm. Open Door goes above and beyond for their community outside of gallery exhibitions, offering residential living care and community engagement groups.

Inside, you’ll find a large community space where classes and events are held for these artists. Artworks of all shapes and sizes outline the creation space that guests are free to roam. Notably, there’s an art-for-sale wall for visitors, and the proceeds go toward supporting the artists. Bridging the art world and local community is a priority. The spirit of this gallery radiates motivation and strength—these wonderful works are proof of just that!

Location: 1050 Goodale Blvd, Columbus, OH 43212

Take bus 31 from W 12th Ave & N High St to Northwest Blvd & Williams Ave.