Real Art Ways is expanding – expanding because of the loyalty and support of our members. You’ve helped us dream big, and we are dreaming bigger because of you.
Construction will begin shortly and is expected to take 12 months.
As Real Art Ways undergoes a transformation, we’re excited to bring you programming in unexpected places — within the 56 Arbor Street building and at partner venues. Wherever we gather, we will be together.
Good news: your membership will be active during construction. When we welcome you into the new space, you’ll enjoy the extended months of your current membership.
Being a member of Real Art Ways comes with perks (and popcorn!) so this period of growth will be no exception.
Hartford is a generous community. We are grateful that these friends are offering benefits to you during our construction:
Cinestudio
Hartford Stage
HillStead Museum
New Britain Museum of American Art
TheaterWorks Hartford
Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
We will welcome you back to a reimagined space filled with energy, creativity, and new opportunities to engage with contemporary art, film, music, performance, literature, ideas, and each other.
Your support makes everything possible!
—
FAQS
What will construction look like?
Every part of Real Art Ways will be touched during the expansion – we are adding 8,000 square feet of new space and renovating our existing space. 56 Arbor is also getting a new roof and new elevator.
How will I stay connected to Real Art Ways?
During construction, we will continue with programming. We will host events that bring us together for experiences, sharing ideas, and socializing. Some programs will be elsewhere in the 56 Arbor building and others will be at partner venues. Keep an eye on our enews, website, and social media for announcements and updates.
What does it mean that my membership is “extended?”
We will stop the clock on your membership when construction begins and start the clock again when it is complete. You will lose no time on your membership and will be considered an active member during the construction period, too.
For example, if you have five months remaining on your membership when construction begins, you will have five months of membership to enjoy when construction is complete.
What benefits will my membership provide when you’re under construction?
1. Access to programming during construction
2. Invitations to member-only events
3. Early notification of ticketed events
4. Member discounts, when applicable
5. Reciprocal benefits at our arts, cultural, and entertainment partners
6. Be the first to know about expansion progress
Tell me more about your partnerships.
We are working with community partners in the Greater Hartford region to give you additional access and benefits during construction.
New partners will be added, so please bookmark this page and check back for updates.
Each partnership is a little different. Reach out to our partners for details.
What are some ways I can support Real Art Ways during construction?
Stay connected through our enews, come to events, share your excitement about our future (and respond generously to any and all fundraising appeals).
I have more questions.
Contact Maureen Kenna at 860-232-1006 x118 or mkenna@realartways.org.

