Pendleton Art Center, Cincinnati

Tucked on the eastern edge of Cincinnati’s historic Over-the-Rhine district, the Pendleton Art Center is more than just an art gallery-it’s an eight-story hive of creativity and community. Housed in a former 1909 shoe warehouse originally built for the Krohn-Fecheimer Shoe Company (later US Shoe), this massive structure has undergone a dramatic transformation from an industrial site to one of the most unique art spaces in the world.

In the mid-1900s, the building was repurposed by Shillito’s Department Store as a warehousing facility, a function it kept until 1991 when it was bought by The Verdin Company-the renowned bell and clock manufacturers. Instead of bells, however, what now rings through the halls is the hum of artistic energy. The Verdin Company reimagined the space as a sanctuary for artists, and the Pendleton Art Center as we know it was born.

Today, the center houses studios for over 200 artists and 130 galleries, making it the world’s largest collection of artists under one roof. From painters to sculptors, fiber artists to mixed media experimenters, the center supports an incredibly diverse array of creative disciplines. Its mission is simple yet powerful: to foster creativity, provide a welcoming environment for artists, and connect the public with contemporary art.

The Pendleton isn’t just about visual art-it’s a cultural cornerstone that hosts social events, art classes, and monthly open studio nights. Its signature events, Final Friday (the last Friday of each month, 6–10 pm) and Second Look Saturday (the following Saturday, 11 am–3 pm), invite the public to explore the studios, meet artists, and fall in love with new works-again and again.

Whether you’re a collector, a casual browser, or someone looking to be inspired, the Pendleton Art Center offers a vibrant and welcoming space. It’s a must-visit for art lovers, history buffs, and anyone who enjoys seeing creativity in motion.