Just ask Professor Google: Madison is "a major cultural spot that punches far above its weight for a mid-sized city." Expand your artistic horizons by exploring these incredible galleries and studios that are just minutes from Madison homes for sale.

Exploring Galleries, Studios and Local Artists Around Madison, WI

Madison Museum of Contemporary Art - Madison, WI

Address: 227 State St., Madison, WI 53703

What's happening in the art world today? Check out the latest and greatest works at Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, aka MMoCA. The breathtaking building in vibrant Downtown Madison is capped with a stunning Rooftop Sculpture Garden.

Current MMoCA exhibitions include:

• David R. Harper: Good Morning, Sweetheart (through 8/30)
• Films by Bill Bedford (through 9/6)
• Extended Play: A-Side (through 9/27)

MMoCA is open noon - 6 p.m. Wednesday, noon - 9 p.m. Thursday, noon - 6 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and noon - 6 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free.

James Watrous Gallery - Madison, WI

Address: Overture Center, 201 State St., Madison, WI 53703

The Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts & Letters uses culture as a means to promote interaction among residents of the Badger State. Housed on the third floor of the Overture Center's state-of-the-art building, the James Watrous Gallery is the Academy's arm for exhibitions of works by Wisconsin-based artists.

Hours are noon - 5 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, and there's no admission charge.

Hatch Art House - Madison, WI

Address: 1248 Williamson St., Madison, WI 53703

Support Wisconsin's remarkable creative community with a visit to Hatch Art House. All pieces in the gallery are exclusively from Wisconsin-based artists, with a special focus on affordable and upcycled items.

Be sure to stop by the other side of the shop, which is home to Hazel General Store, featuring an extensive assortment of domestically-made gifts and home decor items.

Hours are 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sunday.

Arts + Literature Laboratory - Madison, WI

Address: 111 S. Livingston St., Suite 100, Madison, WI 53703

There isn't a test tube or Bunsen burner in sight at the Arts + Literature Laboratory. This vibrant center in Madison's Capitol East District offers shows and educational programs in visual, literary and performing arts.

Mark your calendar for these upcoming events: 

• You Are Sitting Here With Us: A Comics Show (through 8/29)
• Strong Unrelenting Spirits (through 8/29)
• Spatial Sound & Music Workshop at Olbrich Botanical Gardens (5 p.m. - 7 p.m. on Thursday, 8/13)

ALL is open 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon - 5 p.m. Saturday. Admission to the galleries is free.

Garver Canvas - Madison, WI

Address: 3241 Garver Green, Madison, WI 53704

Tired of dinner and a movie? Mix it up for your next date night with dinner and art at Garver Canvas. After viewing the gallery's current exhibitions, enjoy some great conversation over food and beverages in the Garver Lounge.

Plan your visit around these special menus:

• Taco Thursday
• Friday Fish Fry
• Sunday Brunch

Garver Canvas is open noon - 6 p.m. Thursday, 2 - 8 p.m. Friday, noon - 6 p.m. Saturday and noon - 4 p.m. Sunday. General admission is free.

Garver Gallery - Madison, WI

Address: 18 S. Bedford St., Madison, WI 53703

Founded in 1972, the Garver Gallery encompasses a broad spectrum of styles as depicted in the works of more than 300 artists. 

Genres featured in the gallery include:

• Renaissance
• Cubism and minimalism
• Surrealism
• Impressionism

Hours are typically 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday and Wednesday through Friday and 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday. Admission is free.

Frequently Asked Questions About Madison's Art Scene

Are Madison's art galleries free to visit?

Many Madison art destinations offer free admission, including the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, James Watrous Gallery and Arts + Literature Laboratory. Admission policies may vary for special exhibitions, workshops and events, so check each venue's website before visiting.

Where can I see work by Wisconsin artists in Madison?

James Watrous Gallery exclusively showcases Wisconsin-based artists, while Hatch Art House features art, gifts and home decor created in Wisconsin. Other local galleries and arts organizations also regularly highlight artists from Madison and throughout the state.

Which Madison art destinations offer more than gallery exhibitions?

Arts + Literature Laboratory hosts literary, musical, performing arts and educational programs in addition to visual art exhibitions. Garver Canvas combines gallery visits with food and drinks, while the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art also features a rooftop sculpture garden.

Find Your Bliss in Madison, WI

No matter what your lifestyle, you'll feel right at home in Madison. Contact me to learn more.