Our Men’s Graphic Tees (and Women’s too) Are Designed by Independent Artists. Here Are Five Small Towns with Vibrant Art Scenes.

North Adams was named after a small town in Massachusetts that celebrates art and culture. There are hidden gem communities all across the country where creativity thrives. These small towns, often nestled amidst picturesque landscapes or steeped in rich cultural heritage, have become havens for artists seeking inspiration, community, and a slower pace of life. North Adams, MA is one of those towns and is the inspiration for our name. That’s because our graphic tees are designed by independent artists from all across the US and the world. We celebrate art and culture here. Let’s take a closer look at some of other towns that do the same.

Taos, New Mexico

Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains of northern New Mexico, Taos has long been a magnet for artists drawn to its stunning natural beauty and vibrant cultural scene. Home to the Taos Art Colony, founded in the early 20th century by luminaries such as Georgia O'Keeffe and D.H. Lawrence, the town continues to attract painters, sculptors, writers, and musicians. Visitors can explore galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional art, attend workshops and festivals, or simply wander the winding streets lined with adobe architecture.

Saugatuck, Michigan

Tucked away on the shores of Lake Michigan, Saugatuck exudes charm with its quaint downtown, sandy beaches, and scenic dunes. This thriving artist community has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century when Chicago artists began flocking to the area to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Today, visitors can browse galleries featuring a diverse array of artwork, attend performances at the Saugatuck Center for the Arts, or take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to soak in the natural beauty that has inspired generations of artists.

Bisbee, Arizona

Perched in the rugged Mule Mountains of southeastern Arizona, Bisbee boasts a bohemian spirit and a colorful past as a thriving mining town turned artist enclave. Its historic downtown, filled with Victorian-era architecture and quirky boutiques, provides the perfect backdrop for a thriving arts scene. Visitors can explore galleries showcasing everything from contemporary paintings to metal sculptures, attend the annual Bisbee Plein Air Festival, or delve into the town's rich history at the Bisbee Mining & Historical Museum.

Asheville, North Carolina

Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville has earned a reputation as a haven for artists, musicians, and free spirits. From its vibrant downtown arts district to its eclectic neighborhoods filled with studios and galleries, creativity permeates every corner of this vibrant mountain town. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local arts scene by attending gallery walks, live music performances, or workshops led by resident artists. And with its stunning natural surroundings, including the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park, inspiration is never far away.

Marfa, Texas

Tucked away in the vast expanse of the West Texas desert, Marfa has emerged as an unlikely oasis for contemporary artists seeking solitude and space for experimentation. Made famous by minimalist artist Donald Judd, who established the Chinati Foundation here in the 1970s, Marfa has since become a pilgrimage site for art lovers from around the world. Visitors can explore Judd's iconic installations, wander through galleries showcasing cutting-edge contemporary art, or simply marvel at the stark beauty of the desert landscape that has inspired countless works of art.

These five small towns are great examples of the vibrant artist communities that dot the American landscape. Whether you're seeking inspiration, connection, or simply a place to call home, these hidden gems offer a warm welcome to anyone with a creative spirit and a love for the arts. So why not pack your bags and embark on a journey to discover the magic of America's small-town art scenes? You never know what masterpieces await just around the corner.