History-Art & Architecture

The splendid natural surroundings in the Berkshires have inspired scores of artists, some of whom have indeed come to the area to especially partake of nature’s bounty. Chesterwood and the Norman Rockwell Museum are monuments to art inspired in the Berkshires. Plenty of other museums and art galleries showcase the region’s art as well as house excellent samples of great art from all over the world, making the region a renowned center for art education. A flourishing contemporary ceramic and glass art works scene continues the rich art tradition in the Berkshires. The best of contemporary art can be viewed at MASS MoCA while the Sterling and Francine Clark Art Institute has the best of classic art.

Architecture in the Berkshires can range from the stark simplicity of the Quaker Meeting House in Adams to the plush mansions of the Gilded Age such as Ventfort Hall and The Mount in Lenox. Many towns in the Berkshires have handsomely preserved brick buildings that give these towns their characteristic New England ambience. Adams is especially known for its historic downtown area. Lee’s notable Romanesque Congregational Church boasts of only one of two Seth Thomas clocks ever made. Plenty of historic homes, now preserved as inns and museums, make the Berkshires a place like none other to savor traditional architecture.