Long Beach residents have no shortage of opportunities to explore their passion for the arts right in their own backyard. Through the work of dedicated local organizations, creativity has become an essential part of life in the City by the Sea. From vibrant public art along the boardwalk and Park Avenue to community events that celebrate music, theater and dance, these groups have helped shape the city’s cultural identity — and they’re eager for everyone to participate
Check out these arts organizations and connect with the creative spirit of the community.
Artists in Partnership
As you travel along Park Avenue between Riverside and Edwards Boulevards, you may notice planters adorned with colorful artwork — a subtle but striking reminder of creativity woven into the everyday landscape. These installations are among the many community projects led by Artists in Partnership, an all-volunteer, program-driven organization dedicated to supporting artists across disciplines and bringing the arts into public spaces.
True to its mission of “planting the seed” for creative expression, Artists in Partnership has developed a wide range of community programming. Signature events include Blues and Jazz Weekend, Arts in the Plaza and the Toro Nagashi Remembrance, each blending performance, tradition and public engagement. Its annual Cabaret Benefit showcases dozens of performers, while the Women in the Arts awards and recognition gala celebrates the achievements and contributions of women in the cultural arts.
Since 2000, the organization has partnered with programs that enrich and uplift the community, combining fundraising with hands-on arts education and outreach. Working closely with the city’s Arts Council and other local arts groups, Artists in Partnership continues to support high-quality entertainment and youth programming that strengthens Long Beach’s cultural fabric.
To learn more or get involved in volunteer and fundraising efforts, visit aip4arts.org.
Long Beach Art League
The Long Beach Art League has served the community for over 70 years. It was initially formed by longtime resident Leona Post and a small group of friends and has since grown from a handful of members into an organization of over 100 diversified artists.
Over the years, the Art League has dedicated itself to maintaining and promoting creativity and proficiency in the arts, while helping its members realize their goals. It supports its members by fostering memberships in other community art and cultural organizations and participates in art exhibits across Long Island and in Queens. In addition to maintaining four galleries across Long Beach, the Art League promotes art literacy at schools and organizations throughout the city. It also sponsors city events and workshops introducing art to the community — including the Beach Fine Art Expo, which attracts folks from the metropolitan New York area.
To become a member, visit the Art League’s website at longbeachartleague.com.
Long Beach Arts Council
When Long Beach residents gathered in Kennedy Plaza for the annual tree lighting, one of the evening’s most memorable touches was the display of seashell ornaments collected from local beaches by students from East Elementary School and Lindell Elementary School. Helping bring that community project to life was Long Beach Council for the Arts, also known as LBNY-Arts, an 11-member volunteer city board dedicated to championing the arts through programs, events and public initiatives.
The council hosts and supports a wide variety of events throughout the year. During Earth Week, it presents the weeklong “Earth Love LB” celebration, spotlighting artists who transform discarded ocean materials into creative works. The organization also sponsors hands-on workshops, public art exhibits and fundraisers that bring residents together through creativity.
By joining, members can help shape Long Beach’s vibrant arts scene while supporting local creatives and enriching the cultural life of the community. Whether you are an artist yourself or simply an arts enthusiast, LBNY-Arts offers a meaningful way to be part of a movement that inspires expression, connection and civic pride. Learn more at lbny-arts.org.
West End Arts
A stroll along the Long Beach boardwalk often reveals more than ocean views — it also doubles as an open-air gallery featuring paintings and drawings by local artists. Much of that visual presence is supported by West End Arts, which helps bring regional creativity into public spaces.
For more than 23 years, the nonprofit has served artists and communities across western Long Island. With a membership of over 60 artists, West End Arts hosts studio workshops, networking meet-ups and collaborative events with local arts organizations, all aimed at strengthening the regional creative community.
The organization also helps provide exhibition opportunities for its members throughout the area, giving artists valuable venues to share their work. Monthly meetings offer a space for creators to present their art, discuss their inspirations and connect with others in the field.
One of its signature events, the Fine Art Expo at the Allegria Hotel, invites visitors and local artists alike to experience a curated journey through a wide range of artistic styles and perspectives.
West End Arts can also be found at the Long Beach Public Library, 111 Park Ave. To learn more, visit westendarts.org.