The Farmstead Arts Center - Basking Ridge, New Jersey

Joan F.

The Farmstead is a lovely country setting next to the Passaic River which runs thru its' back area. I have seen artist like myself enjoy the farms classes, gallery gatherings and events.

I take Tuesday art classes with Oscar Peterson who is a successful known artist who has a clan of students following him. My work has improved 150% with his guidance and teaching skills. I have learned to enter shows and believe in myself under his wing.

Worth a drive to Somerset County &. make time to enjoy Basking Ridges down town or stop in to Dewey Meadow across the street for a light bite.

Laraine M.

I have been participating in art classes offered by Farmstead for at least 2 years now and keep coming back. The center is in a small historical building on beautiful grounds and it has a friendly, community vibe. The staff is friendly and knows everyone. The art instructors are not only top-notch, talented artists, but they are also extraordinary teachers. They've provided me with the space and staff to achieve confidence in myself and results, which are displayed and shared with the public. BTW, I've taken classes with several other instructors over the years. My favorite instructor is Oscar Peterson. He is motivating, encouraging, and inspirational in what he can do. Highly recommend him!

Susan M.

Country line dancing lessons! What's not to like? There's also an arts program here and a theater program too (I think!). The space is very peaceful. The dancing takes place in a barn and they include snacks, beverages and even hand-held fans! Great time!

Mariam A.

I went to a concert a couple months ago and it was underwhelming, the chairs were crowding the room and you could hear every footstep. I really want to enjoy going to events here, but I feel like there’s a lack of care put into planning and executing them. Another concern is the recent flyer I saw for the fundraiser...this is supposed to be an arts center yet the flier is so jumbled and just not appealing to look at. I really hope there will be some efforts made to up the quality of the shows/events that are put out in the future.

Hana K.

Quaint but amateurish. This is a small arts center in a historic building, so you shouldn't expect an expansive gallery space if you come. But you could do a lot with a small space if you know what you're doing - however, something just tells me that the people behind-the-scenes aren't qualified to run an arts center at all. I saw a flyer up at the library for an upcoming show printed on yellow paper. That's just not done (it changes the color of the sample photos on the page). The lights were also off both times I've stopped by to see the gallery (at an arts center, during their hours of operation...), one of the rooms is lit by lamps instead of overhead lighting, and everything seems just kind of...second rate. (Like you took an old house and said "let's make this into an arts center", which seems to be what happened.)

A friend of mine has taken classes here, and only has good things to say about that. I can understand that - it would be a nice space to quietly work on a drawing.

Janice G.

Beautiful historical site. Rotating art and craft exhibits, art and photo classes, plays and music in the barn. Next to the Raritan River. A beautiful site to draw or photograph.

Ved B.

Amazing location, especially when the local high school hosts coffee house - type art shows (includes live music!). Pretty sure there's a nice antique & quaint musueam in the summer.

Marty K.

Closed because of Covid. A nice place to gather, photograph and paint.

Our second year back at their pottery show and sale. Exceptional wares, reasonable prices. Very well done.