The 10 Best Art Galleries in Jersey City

Jersey City, often overshadowed by its glitzy neighbour across the Hudson River, has quietly been establishing itself as a thriving hub for arts and culture.

This vibrant, culturally rich city is home to a diverse and ever-expanding art scene, with numerous galleries offering a rich tapestry of artistic expressions. We will take you on a journey through some of Jersey City’s finest art galleries, where heart and creativity are poured into art pieces.

1) Mana Contemporary

Formerly known as a tobacco warehouse, Mana Contemporary houses an art lover’s paradise. This massive, multi-faceted arts institutions makes room for a unique blend of art studios, galleries and exhibition spaces.

You can visit and explore an array of works ranging from traditional paintings to multimedia installations. This place’s commitment to fostering artistic collaboration and innovation makes it a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts.

But wait, you can also visit another one in this list that’s very close to this gallery, keep scrolling and find out!

Mana isn’t a museum; it’s a complete art institution and community with local artist studios, art foundations displaying curated art including some Warhols, sculptures, the Richard Meier Model Museum, and much more. They periodically hold open houses which is the best opportunity to spend an afternoon exploring. Free parking in a big lot.  They just opened a cafe in the lobby as well.

—Edwin Blanco • Aug. 4, 2023 • Google Review

2) Art House Productions

Nestled in the heart of the Powerhouse Arts District, Art House Productions is a dynamic centre for the performing and visual arts. This non-profit organization promotes local talent and community engagement through its gallery space, exhibitions, and live performances.

With a focus on inclusivity and cultural diversity, Art House Productions creates a space where artists and audiences can connect on a profound level. They recently reopened in a new space at 345 Marin Boulevard in downtown, Jersey City, at The Hendrix.

Arthouse is amazing. We hosted a birthday party there and everything was so seamless. Lobby and gallery were perfect for bar service and buffet catering, high tops and art made the space feel classy. Theatre was perfect for the improv troupe. Staff was exceptional, shout-out to Anna for coordinating all the tech/logistics, working with the caterers, performers and table rentals to make everything gel smoothly.

—Timothy A. • Nov. 23, 2023 • Google Review

3) 313 Gallery

A hidden gem in the historic P. Lorillard Tobacco Company building, 313 Gallery offers an intimate setting to explore the works of emerging and established artists. This gallery’s intimate atmosphere fosters a deeper connection between art and viewer, making it an ideal spot for art lovers seeking a more personal experience.

Great gallery with interesting art that’s always changing. And so close to the Newark Ave area. Always walk past when near to checkout what’s showing.

—Bryan Rackleff • Jan. 30, 2019 • Facebook

4) Deep Space Gallery

For those interested in the avant-garde and experimental side of art, Deep Space Gallery pushes the boundaries of traditional artistic expression. Their ever-changing exhibits often include edgy, thought-provoking works that challenge conventions and captivate the imagination. It’s a gallery for those looking to push their creative boundaries. 

Do not miss this local art gallery. Check out their Instagram for the current exhibition. I was able to easily schedule a time via IG for viewing. Make sure to leave some time to look around their vintage clothing shop, or purchase art from a past or currently exhibiting artist.

—Laura Isley • Oct. 10, 2021 • Google Review

5) Now Project Space

Now Project Space is an artist exhibit gallery that presents abstract colourful works on panel using acrylic, charcoal, graphite, ink, collage and more. This unique gallery showcases a wide range of styles, techniques, and artists, highlighting the versatility of this medium. Whether you’re a drawing enthusiast or simply looking for something different.

Unique showcase of arts, extremely talented artists with techniques I have never seen before

—James C. • May 12, 2023 • Friend of HCA

6) Novado Gallery

In the heart of the Powerhouse Arts District, Novado Gallery showcases diverse exhibitions and actively supports emerging artists. It’s a space that encourages exploration and appreciation of contemporary art.

Paradise!! A little place with such nice stuff. Awesome for everyone at this difficult time when museums and more are close. You will be happy to spend some time there and maybe buy something for you home or office. Anne Novado will be your helper. She is very friendly. Do yourself a gift.!!

—Lioubov Lebedeva • June 6^th, 2021 • Google Review

7) Curious Matter

Curious matter is an exhibition and a project space destined for contemporary art, its conveniently located in Downtown Jersey City, they have wonderful arts in display that will have you taking second peeks as they can be very detailed and ‘curious’.

They got us raising our eyebrows each time we soak the details from each piece!’

Thoughtful, considered, world-class programming in this “curious”, delightful Brownstone salon turned contemporary art gallery. Small but pithy, it’s no wonder this space was continually listed on NY Times (unfortunately discontinued) NJ offerings column. Go. You will thank yourself afterward.

—Enrico Gomez • May 23, 2017 • Google Review

8) NJCU Galleries

NJCU campus art galleries offer artist’s talks, panel discussions, and performance events. The galleries are committed to broadening the artistic horizon for its campus and community by presenting artworks that reflect the cultural diversity for the greater metropolitan area.

Congratulations! The young artists are talented and can’t wait to see more of their work in the future!

—Weiling Pan May • May 20, 2023 • Google Review

9) Drawing Rooms

The Drawing Rooms gallery is a non-profit art space located in the Topps Building on the Mana campus (Besides the Mana Contemporary gallery!). Drawing rooms started operating over 20 years ago by 2 artists. The pieces shown are wild, intricate and expressive, it will draw your attention as you pass by!

Drawing Rooms just gets it. Well curated, tight shows each with a specific vision highlighted by New Jersey artists.

—Gregg Rosen • Sep. 4, 2019 • Facebook

10) Jersey City Murals

Across the city you can catch our famous murals painted by local, national and international mural artists thanks to the Jersey City Mural Arts Program. The beautification program aims to reduce graffiti and transform JC into an outdoor art gallery – Catch a few today by looking up their locations through this website: https://www.jcmap.org/our-murals

This beautiful artwork really needs to be experienced in-person. It brings an energy and joy to Jersey City. The images within the letters are insightful and stir the soul. Love this mural!

—Jonathan Lum • Nov. 23, 2022 • Google Review

Jersey City’s art galleries offer a window into the rich tapestry of artistic expression, from avant-garde experimentation to traditional paintings.

Whether you’re a dedicated art enthusiast or simply looking for an inspiring cultural experience, these art galleries in Jersey City promise to leave you captivated and inspired. Don’t miss the chance to explore the vibrant art scene that Jersey City has to offer, breath in the richness of JC’s creativity and have a change of pace.