Whimsical galleries, innovative murals, eclectic music, electrifying live performances — the arts are woven into the fabric of Richland County.
Creative Establishments
Explore eclectic pieces from local and regional artists or get creative in an expert-led art class in glassblowing, fiber arts, 3D printing and more at the Mansfield Art Center. See life-size wooden figures depicting Bible stories — the culmination of 30 years of work from artist Joseph Barta — at the Museum of Woodcarving at BibleWalk.
Open-Air Art
Take a driving tour of Richland County’s public art pieces including the imaginative dragon mural decorating the Buckeye Imagination Museum — created using a unique method that gives the creature’s scales iridescence. Snag a selfie by the Art in the Alley murals near the Brickyard entertainment area and Gravity Alley next to Dan Lew Exchange. In nearby Shelby, a colorful mural honoring local history created by local artist Allison Pence was unveiled just last year. For something a little different, pay a visit to one of the world’s largest bobbleheads, Chef Jacques, at Buckeye Express Diner in Bellville.
Class Acts
Since 1928, the Renaissance Theatre has shone its spotlight on talented actors, comedians and musicians (including the acclaimed Mansfield Symphony Orchestra) of both regional and national distinction. Check out up-and-coming talent at its Emerging Artists Festival and intimate black box productions at the theater’s nearby second venue, Theatre 166. Just down the street, the Mansfield Playhouse puts local talent center stage as the city’s premier community theater. Hone your own dance, music, visual arts, theatre and martial arts skills with a workshop at the Richland Academy of the Arts — classes are designed for all ages and experience levels.
Jam Sessions
The Brickyard’s Final Friday Concert Series brings a slew of lively bands to the outdoor amphitheater the last Friday of every month, May to September. Also on select Fridays, the Mansfield Art Center presents Free Summer Concerts perfect for the family. Spend Thursday evenings in July amidst the lush grounds at Kingwood Center Gardens enjoying food, good company and a musician every week at Live on the Lawn. In Shelby, kick back by the outdoor fireplace and enjoy a summer night of music and fun at Black Fork Commons. Plus, many venues on the Wine & Ale Trail and local community bandstands host live music regularly throughout the year.
More Nightlife
Sip on your favorite drink while enjoying live music or a game of pool at Warehouse Tavern. Gather the crew and head to Axe Social Lounge for axe throwing and retro arcade games. Warm up your hands and soul at 3rd Cup Tea’s evening concert series like Tea & Tunes.
Immersive events
Celebrate art in all its forms at creative festivals. Rock out to metal acts on the grounds of the Historic Ohio State Reformatory at the three-day Inkcarceration Music & Tattoo Festival in July. See zany avian artwork in celebration of migration season at the Mansfield Art Center’s CrowFest in September and October.
By Ann Fazzini