What began in 2005 with 45 artists moving into an old mill has grown into one of the largest artist communities in the country, in fact, the largest in New England. Nearly 400 artists now call Western Avenue Studios & Lofts home. For two decades, we’ve transformed a historic textile mill into a thriving creative campus where art is made, shared, and celebrated.

From its beginnings as the Massachusetts Mohair Plush Company — a mill that once produced high-quality fabrics for furniture, trains, and automobiles — Western Avenue has always been a place shaped by makers. Today, our artists continue that legacy.

Western Avenue is the creation of dedicated and visionary owners, artists, and investors. Now a nonprofit as part of the Arts & Business Council's Creative Campus, we celebrate our roots as an industrial investment that turned into an artist's dream preserved by a mission to serve. As we celebrate 20 years, we’re also looking to the future: ensuring Western Avenue remains a permanently affordable home for artists and a place where art and community can grow together for generations to come.

Western Avenue Community for the Arts Inc

Active campaigns

Western Avenue Artist Relief Fund

Luminosity – Western Avenue's 20th Anniversary Fundraiser & Celebration