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Every city has some kind of art scene, big or small. Yes, we're used to cities like Paris and New York City hogging up all the attention with their larger-than-life presence, but they're not the only cities with an artistic bent.
Some destinations keep a low profile while still tempting the biggest art lovers across the planet with imaginative landscapes, art museums and galleries that are all intended to inspire. Are you craving an art fix? Are you searching for that special out-of-the-box experience? Then tap into the creativity of the following lesser-known art-infused towns, whose masterpieces rival the biggest capitals of the world.
Aix-en-Provence, France
Aix-en-Provence may not be as famous as its more famous countryman Paris, but it shines brightly on its own with elegant masterpieces shaped in the form of ancient fountains, squares and buildings. Although the city is known as a vibrant college town, it is also an artists' playground where generations of artists have roamed along its streets for inspiration. Luminaries include Paul Cézanne, who made a profound imprint wth a legacy that is documented in the Bibémus quarries and with remnants concealed in his studio.
Though Aix-en-Provence is famous for its collections of Cezanne creations, art also lingers on the grand stages of the 18th century Jeu Paume Theatre as well as the Vittorio Gregotti's Grand Théâtre de Provence. Museums like the Musée du Vieil Aix, which is housed in an historic mansion, are filled with artistic treasures that include paintings as well as pottery, and continuously act as mirrors to Aix-en-Provence's rich past.
Ottawa, Canada
Boasting a history steeped in Aboriginal traditions, it is easy to see Ottawa rocks its own style. That is why the city's plethora of galleries should make the bucket list of every art lover. The National Gallery of Canada is an example of Ottawa's determination to preserve its heritage because it lies in heart of its art scene, giving visitors a taste of antiquity and modernity through its diverse art pieces and exhibits.
The Karsh-Masson Gallery tops the list with spaces dedicated to different themes and displays like the embroidery designs of Hungarian-born artist Anna Torma. In addition, blending Canada's Aboriginal heritage into its fascinating exhibitions, Gallery 101 draws ample attention due to its media and visual creations.
Cluj, Romania
Not all destinations have to be huge capitals to make an everlasting impression, and the pocket-size city of Cluj-Napoca is proof. In fact, it provides a great escape for travelers looking for art appeal. Elegance exudes from the medieval city's old structures, yet it dabbles in contemporary works that transform it into an up-and-coming force in the modern world of art.
Exploring the local art hotspots should include a visit to Bazis Gallery and Baril, which are located in the same building and present different projects by Romanian and international artists. A visit to the Casa Matei is also a must for aficionados interested in fresh ideas, since the pieces shown here are created by new talents emerging into Cluj-Napoca's art scene.
Oslo, Norway
Will Oslo become the next must-visit destination for art? To find out, just explore its numerous museums. You'll quickly see that when it comes to art, the city doesn't play. Take the National Gallery for example; it boasts such an extensive portfolio of sculptures, paintings and other masterpieces it comes in first place in Oslo for its number of artworks. From Cezanne of Manet to French Impressionists, the displays here are as rich as the city itself.
Always buzzing with activity, the Vigeland Sculpture Park is another illustration of the city's dedication to art. Its grounds are sprinkled with the artistic bronze, cast iron as well as bronze centerpieces of renowned sculptor Gustav Vigeland. If you are looking for inspiration check out the Little Angry Boy and the Wheel of Life, which are his more popular artworks.
Ogden, Utah
Once again it does not take a big city name to impress lovers of art. Ogden has a crafty side and lures even the most conventional traveler to sneak and take a peek. One of the best places to witness the power of art in the city is to participate in the Art Stroll.
On the first Friday of each month, local galleries come together by keeping their doors open for longer hours to give visitors ample opportunity to explore local art. However, if you just so happen to be in the city on a day that does not correspond to the Art Walk, its wide spectrum of galleries like Gallery 25 and The Queen Bee are constantly inviting visitors in. Even the beginning of summer goes unnoticed because of the colorful Ogden Arts Festival dominating Ogden's downtown area.
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