VERMONT—As if stunning vistas and the joy of an exhilarating winter sport weren’t enough, today’s ski resorts and communities also offer a cultural immersion that is equal parts pride and pleasure. While Vermont’s ski resorts are well known for après beer and cozy fireplaces, they’re also exhibition halls for Vermont artists. Tastefully outfitted lodges and local après bands are just the beginning; a deeper look at the resorts’ “Made in Vermont” vibe reveals mountains of art to be discovered.
Vermont mountains are well known for historic “firsts.” As home to the first ski lift, the first ski academy, the first resort to offer snowboarding and the first Nordic ski center, Vermont is also understandably home to several winter Olympians, new and legendary. These pro athletes are in excellent company, too, as Vermont ranks third in the nation for artists as a percentage of the workforce.
“The tremendous presence of the arts and artists is undeniably part of what has sculpted Vermont’s creative culture,” Kira Bacon, Vermont Arts Council communications manager said. “The arts should—and arguably do—have the same allure as the state’s beloved landscape, its beer and food scene, and its skiing.”
Skiers and riders come to Vermont for its legendary terrain, and for many residents and visitors alike, when the lifts stop, the arts begin. It’s common and welcome to see people sporting “helmet-head” at concerts and galleries. A short drive along our state’s many mountain access roads will reveal local makers, museums, performing arts centers and hubs for some of Vermont’s dozens of arts organizations.
To explore Vermont’s “Mountains of Art,” visit VermontArtsCouncil.org, SkiVermont.com and tune into #VTarts and #SkiVermont on social media.
Photo courtesy of Vermont Arts Council
Okemo Resort brims with much original artwork, like this piece, one of a commissioned series of paintings by Vermont artist Donald Saaf located at Solitude Village.
