Real Art Ways

Creative Cocktail Hours: Musical Performance is great and in the center of attention, Can’t say the same about the visual arts exhibitions. I think they do not the attention that they need. I was surprised to see no wall labels and statements. Just a printed pamphlet at the door.

I’ve loved being a member of Real Art Ways. It’s a beautiful art + music + theater space in Hartford hosting some incredible and thoughtful indie films, artists, conversations and cocktail hours. It’s a powerful community builder and I’m glad to be a part of it.

Love everything about this place. Parking is easy. Art is interesting. Movie was fantastic.

Just came back from my first photoshoot/commercial and I walked in absolutely terrified, only to walk out comfortable, even confident. Everyone was both professional yet extremely welcoming. What a phenomenal experience!!

In spite of its small size, the exhibits they have leave a lasting impression that will make you want to come back again and again. Hanging out here is great, as one is surrounded by art that has much to be discussed about and snacks sold indoors. The movie theater is comfortable and immersive. They also have a variety of fun social activities, though I've only ever been to one which I vastly enjoyed! If you're looking for a simple and artsy hangout spot or happen to be in the area looking for places to check out, Real Art Ways is worth visiting and returning to.

Great place to see a movie and excellent staff

Easy access from route 84, secure parking, friendly staff, creative art, interesting movies, fun social events, engaging educational programs, neighborhood friendly and caring, lots of energy.

Love Real Art Ways, the best movies , great art of all kinds are shown there, friendly folks, great events and a very welcoming place.

I have come here twice to see this documentary "No Other Land" because it isn't streaming or playing anywhere else. I'm grateful that we have a theater like this in Hartford! I am not a member yet but I intend to become one. There is also an art gallery which I have not explored yet. I took a star off because the popcorn was not great. I only got it once. Maybe it wasn't fresh. I'm going back tomorrow to see the movie one last time before it's gone and will check out the art gallery and try the popcorn again!

We had the pleasure of attending the opening of " MIDAS." The theatre was perfect in size and the chair not tight fitting! The staff were great in directing us to the evening's event and activities. We will return!!

This is a state treasure! Real art ways allows a path for artists to connect with their community, and have a space to share their impactful arts and moments, with a focus on film, arts, education, and more. The movie theater is my favorite aspect -- we came to see 'Midas,' a Hartford created feature film that blew us away. We can't recommend supporting Real Art Ways enough!

"I got a girlfriend that's better than that She has the smoke in her eyes As we get older and stop making sense You won't find her waiting long" (Talking Heads) I've always loved music with quirky lyrics. Steely Dan, The Kinks, and Warren Zevon come to mind immediately. But that short list is incomplete if it doesn't include Talking Heads. For years I've read that their 1984 concert documentary "Stop Making Sense" was fantastic. IMDb says it "is considered by critics as the greatest concert film of all time". So a) when the film was re-released in a restored version to celebrate its 40th anniversary, and b) when I saw Real Art Ways scheduled week long screenings, well, I knew I'd be making my very first visit there. Tickets were ordered through their website, and that went super easy. There were seven showings available, and tickets were priced at $12 for an Adult, and $8 for Seniors and Students. After I ordered, the tickets were promptly e-mailed to me. When we arrived for the 5:15 show, we chatted with the attendant who was pretty friendly and cool. An afternoon showing of a Carlos Santana documentary was finishing up, so that gave us time to wander through RAW's three art galleries to check out the exhibits. We didn't buy anything from the concession stand, but they have quite a few beers and candies for you if you want something. Our theater seats were comfortable and the sound and picture were great for our movie. We were two of only eleven patrons for the 5:15 showing, and that was a shame because the concert film was an exhilarating joy to watch. RAW is quite a place- a nice combination of the arts and cinema, so if that's your thing you'll probably enjoy their monthly cocktail parties.

Real Art Ways is a true Hartford gem. Although it's not really near anything else in the area, they do a great job bringing together lots of different types of people for unique events. Not only do they show lots of independent movies, but they also have ongoing contemporary art exhibits, which you can stroll and visit at your leisure. They also have lots of events each month, including Creative Cocktail Hours each month, which always have some great vendors. A lot of their events also include free food. Even their "concession stand" has a nice selection of beers and wines for a reasonable price. There's always something interesting planned. If anything, this spot is prime for people watching.

A dance party, a movie theater, a safe space, an ever changing art exhibit: RAW (Real Art Ways) is truly a Hartford gem. Whether it be the monthly Creative Cocktail Hours or catching a recent film or indie movie in the cinema, the RAW team do a fantastic job at engaging the community and providing a medium in alternative entertainment. Whether you just moved to Hartford (or want to change your views on what Hartford is/can be) stop by RAW to experience what our Capitol City has to offer through the art scene. There's always something going on so be sure to check out their website for ongoing shenanigans (https://www.realartways.org/calendar/) The holiday market in December is a personal favorite, one not to be missed!

You'll never know what you will find at Real Art Ways (RAW). This week I was invited to attend their anniversary of their Creative Cocktail hour held on the third Thursday of every month. You'll find a wide range of people, professions, art and music. It's a surprise that can sometimes be overwhelming, but grab a group of people, head to the bar there where they serve beer, wine and cocktails and make a new friend. You'll be sure to make friends with someone there and share how little or how much you want. There are different sections to the location, a couch area to rest your feet, galleries lining with artwork on the walls, the bar where you can buy drinks along with tickets for the theater where they have performance and films every month and then finally the big room where more art and people are usually gathered. Here I saw a live band that then changed to a DJ. Whatever you want to give into RAW is what you will get out of it. It is a collection and location that is welcome to all people that seek to know others and share in their stories. My last visit there I recently saw a food truck too.

Real art ways is a wonderful place to see a outstanding film. We have never seen a film we didn't enjoy there. The art is a bit edgy & always a joy to view. Staff is always great and helpful .....it's a GREAT place to be a member and see a great film and enjoy yummy pop corn & a drink:) A great night out on a date, with friends or to go solo. Love love real art ways!

I enjoy the movie selection at Real Art Ways. I went to the "cat video fest" this year, and two years ago and absolutely loved it!!! I went there last night for a storytelling event and was disappointed. Parking was an issue because they couldn't accommodate everyone there for the storytelling and a movie showing simultaneously. They threatened to tow people's cars - so we had to move the car to a faraway lot after the event started. The line for concessions/tickets was super long, so we didn't even bother. The storytelling event involved sitting in very uncomfortable chairs under bright lights. It was not as enjoyable as the storytelling events at the Mark Twain House. I would only return to Real Art Ways in the future for a movie.

*Really old review that failed to post long ago. Another awesome night at Real Art Ways. Went for Creative Cocktail Hour with a "Back to School" theme. Tanya Wolski unveiled her project- New World of Deliciousness- consisting of paintings of objects, mostly food, morphed into unabashed, colorful explosions. There were games galore: geography contests, trivia, and a spelling bee (I got forth place). The crowd is fun. Everyone I had the pleasure of meeting was down to earth and welcoming, as were the staff and Ms. Wolski. Everyone has the same goal in mind: have a good time. It was a great break away from the happy hour scene. Having a few cocktails, surrounded by art and interesting people--. It's a shame it only happens once a month. I would definitely go again.

In reality this is a tough review to write because there are a number of unique branches yo this review, each with positives and negatives. They are: Programming content Art Gallery exhibits External non profit programs Engagement and serving the customer base Brand Lets start with brand. While who they are and their mission is clear enough the execution on that ebbs and flows. On one level they are a kind of ersatz urbane, intellectual bohemian enclave of styles, mediums and hipster chic. The appearance of, without the reality of substance. Its what I'd call a strong, fake brand. This is also the core of the other elements to their cinematic theatre show. Programming content While their "let's play theatre" act is a bit frayed at the edges, their programming content is pretty strong. The strongest piece of the endeavor and certainly the main attraction. Were it not for fairly consistent film programming, I'm not sure what would attract anyone here. They have a solid screen, viewing space, concessions offering and good selection of filmic content they fall down around more ambitious, adventurous, and limited viewing attractions. It seems they simply don't have the machinery or connections for road shows, 70" mm special offerings (Hateful Eight, Roma or The Phantom Thread) or Bullets over Broadway roadshow. Their part time epicurean program director seems like the real deal but the appearance of access is a different thing than actual access. Regardless, he's knowledgable, adept and trained in film. So, three and a half stars out of five here. The Art Gallery The space itself is multi functional. On the one hand a waiting area for access to the cinema. On the other, concessions and ticketing and on the third hand (huh?) it is a mix of quasi-bohemia, suburban Connecticut and upscale retail where they hang art to make shoppers feel Klassey. Kind of a, wait what is this for? Sort of an enigma and mismash of multi-media, video, crafts and post modern aesthetic. Its not offensive and with couches and tables near concessions rather comfy and welcoming - in a pottery barn kind of way but mostly...meh. Theres just no there, there. The best you can really say about the space is, you could've done a worst job filling it. Nothing to really criticize, nothing to praise. Two stars. Educational outreach and external programming This is an area I have no experience or data on so I can't comment. From what I know they appear to focus on younger demographics and the local urban population. Which is good, if something comes from it. Stars - no comment Engagement and Serving Customer base While their customer demographic seems to extend geographically a bit beyond Hartford proper the funding, from what I've gathered is primary and secondary corporate. Meaning insurance companies and local business people subscribing to memberships. To this degree the non profit element of the organization is predominantly run like a LORT B local theatre company. But not being the source of original material and productions and not having the "swagger" to mount special productions (roadshows, 70 mm, etc) keeps them off the map of major local players in NYC or places in Boston and Coolidge Corner. This combined with a skeletal, double duty, PT staff prevents them from true engagement, interaction and input from donors, members and occasional movie goers. Its got a kitschy mom and pop "Dad's got a theatre we can turn into a barn feel". No doubt this could be disheartening since I believe their desire us deeper engagement but if yiu don't got it, you don't got it. In addition the simple opportunities are there, they're just not taking advantage of them. The recent Oscars -shorts, live action, animated festival was ideal but their answer was...we'll have people vote on their favorites! Ok, alright - and then what?! What happens with that info, who cares what so eone else's vote was? Not me. Why did they cast that vote? What did they like or not in what they saw. Soldout shows - missed opportunity. Its again, a bush league attempt. "We'll put some effort into it...just not enough" geez! You couldn't do one video call with a single aspiring Director? Arggghh. One star on engagement. Just nominally better than the multiplex, nominally!

I love this place for art. I mean, they are constantly updating their expo. They accept local artists. I also like the fact that they play indie films and have a cocktail bar there. Though it is small, Real Artways makes it good enough to never be bored.

A fantastic place for independent films and art. Trendy and fun! Creative Cocktail Hour is fun too. The films will not disappoint you, well, that is unless you are into the films available at any major cinema. You can enjoy the movie with a glass of wine, sold at the cafe. Best of all--become a member, the basic individual membership is only $50 and you will get a significant discount on your tickets $5 vs. $9 if you are not a member. If you can afford it go for the higher value membership, $75 (household, where anyone in your household gets the discount), or even more fun, $250 (donor, with with you can bring your friends along and pay only $5 per ticket). The membership is considered a donation, so it is tax-deductible. Like all the other reviewers, this is just a fantastic place--no other like that.

Cool place! I was visiting Hartford when I came here and you can tell they really try to be a part of the community. It has a small, cozy feel, reasonably priced drink/snack items, and they sometimes hold discussions about the films. I can't speak much to the gallery side since we were just there to see Chat du Rabbin (The Rabbi's Cat), but overall it was a good experience. Seniors and students can save a few dollars at the door.

My girlfriend and I stumbled upon this venue when we came to CT from Boston for a getaway! We walked through the latest art exhibit (privacy/surveillance) and it was great, and small enough to browse for about 25-30 minutes. We also saw a great documentary. Overall, a nice space and a nice surprise in an unexpected area about five minutes out of downtown.

I've been here several times and have never been disappointed. The art is always compelling, as are the movies! In addition to the standard movie fair, they serve specialty teas, wine and beer. I love foreign films and have thoroughly enjoyed every one we've had the privilege to experience at Real Art Ways... I hope you do too!

Real Art Ways never disappoints with their visual art shows. I am always energized by the interesting and diverse work curated for their galleries. I just saw Parasite in their theater. $4 for a small tea is over-priced, as was the Sprite my boyfriend got, but I am willing to pay a little more to support a valuable local cultural hub. The movie theater is basic and old-school- no recliner seats here. I really wish they had cup holders. Regardless of all that, the staff is always super friendly and the art is always well curated. I've been going for years, and I'll continue to go for many more.

I had my first (!) visit to RAW on Friday for the Unaugural Ball. The venue is very interesting and I was a fan of the variety of art styles displayed. It's easy to find with ample parking, which is always welcome when attending an event, and is large enough to hold a very big crowd.

My first Creative Cocktail Event and it was superb. The Lost Tribe rocked us outside under the near full moon. If you have not seen this reggae/fusion jazz group perform, make sure you follow them soon! They play nonstop and are extremely talented. Also, join Real Art Ways to contribute to the Hartford Arts scene while getting $5 off these events and films, win-win. Small app snacks inside, a food truck to check mole restaurants your meal and a wider selection of wines and beers than on an average film night. The inside exhibits round out the friendly and fun evening with their creativity and ability to make us ponder the topics addressed. RAW is an establishment everyone should take the time to enjoy and support.

Love this place. An eclectic contemporary arts center complete with exhibits, a cafe, and a cinema with screenings of indie domestic and foreign films. The art galleries are usually unbelievable, and, if nothing else- conversation starters (even for those scoffing "I could paint that" modern art naysayers). The monthly Creative Cocktail Hour is always a hit (and, yeah, kind of a hipster haven), whether it features live music, yoga, book readings (I saw Wally Lamb read once!), or some good ol fashioned hula hoops. The event takes place every Third Thursday for conversation, music, art...andddd a cash bar. I stalk their events calendar like you wouldn't believe.

I recently saw Congressman Luis Gutierrez speak here. I love that they have events for the community here. Thank you Real Art Ways!

I love Real Art Ways, it's a hub of cultural activity in Hartford. I'm still yet to go to one of their events (like board game nights) but I've come for multiple films and perusing the art gallery. I have to say that the best film I've seen at this arts center is "The Room." Please, go see this horribly awesome movie. I can't even begin to explain how hilarious the interactive experience of watching this film is. Throwing plastic spoons at the screen while shouting obscenities with a theater full of rowdy movie-goers tipsy on beers purchased on-site? Yes please! One of the best theater experiences I've ever had, and I'm still telling people about it and convincing them that they need to go for themselves! Real Art Ways also shows educational films for field trips, I bought a group full of Hartford youth as part of a summer employment program that I worked for and we saw Favela Rising. It included a short discussion after the film on topics brought up--community organizing, wealth disparities in Brazil, the power of community to bring light and happiness to a community ridden with violence and poverty. I highly recommend Real Art Ways, and I can easily say that it is one of my favorite spots in Hartford to hang out and watch an eclectic film.

Eclectic. Cultured. Welcoming. A more modern alternative to the Wadsworth for younger, more contemporary tastes. RAW offers a dizzying degree of different programs, events, and exhibits. The modern theater offers some the best independent films this side of NYC, many featuring post-film conversations or chats with filmmakers. Geek out and come by 1st Tuesdays for their monthly board game night. Or hipster up, and swing by 3rd Thursdays for their Creative Cocktail Hours, Hartford's finest electic drink/dance/art/music night. Best part, all of the RAW staff are super friendly, overly-accommodating, and truly passionate about art, culture, and conversation. $5 movies with RAW membership and you actually get wine and REAL popcorn. Amazing! Contemporary art fan or not, you are missing out if you do not take advantage of all the great programming and events happening here.

Pompous. I gave many of artwork for an auction towards funding their space. Never supported my art. Except steal my ideas and gave me the runaround.

1 star-Creative cocktail hour 5 star- movies and gallery Perhaps I waited too long and this event jumped the shark? Perhaps it was an off night due to the holiday? I'd heard such great things about Creative Cocktail Hour, so perhaps I was expecting too much? Parking was nuts, as it was raining. There was no clear signage where not to park, so twice we had to get back in our car and move after a staffer chased us down. Cover charge $10: seemed high when the space was filled with merchants. They were all great, interesting, local, but I was perplexed why they didn't do a discounted cover charge if this was the crafts fair edition. (I didn't see a band or anyone else that would need to be paid) I was so disappointed and hungry when we arrived to absolutely NO food left. I thought perhaps they would restock it? No. The minuscule amount of food was gone, and I later learned that one must be there when they open if you want to eat. There was a long long long line for overpriced drinks. The crowd was so much Less interesting than I expected. I thought Id see costumes or at least some interesting fashion some drag queens, some hats, nope. There was no indication of any Creative Cocktail. Only Cock and Tail, as it was mostly banal hartford insurance twenty somethings in a bad attempt to dance and mingle and find someone to make a baby with. The only cool people were the merchants, but, they were selling their wares not out mingling and making a fun party happen. Bletch... At least the art on the walls was interesting. I doubt I'll ever go back for Creative Cocktail Hour, but adore their movies and the gallery.

An Eclectic Place for Art From RAW's indie film offerings to their art exhibits, this place is a joy to frequent in Hartford. There are many activities to participate in at night and you won't be disappointed with the offerings. Becoming a member of RAW allows you to pay $5 for films instead of their regular rate of $11.

If you are new in town, go to Real Art Ways. It's a great place to connect with an artistic crowd and see some art. They have contemporary galleries, live and screen performances, and events. Cocktail hour is fun.

One tip I would have, don't be punctual to this event as the crowd started arriving around 6:30/7pm. The back patio had a good display of local vendors ranging from Hartford Prints to an agriculture project that's going on in the North end. All of the vendors were extremely nice to talk to and potentially purchase something from. As many reviews stated the crowd is a great mix of people which really helps the dynamic of this event. I'm excited to check out another!

I've been coming to this place since moving to Connecticut years ago. It's still one of my favorite places here and my favorite for seeing a film. There's not much that hasn't been said about RAW already. It's one of the best places to see films that you most likely won't find anywhere else. It's a real treasure for the central part of this state.

This place is awesome. When I still lived in CT we came here a couple of times for some of their cool screenings. I love that it's an independent theater. The people working here are friendly and helpful. They also serve beer and wine, which is cool. My mother in law just became a member, so now she can go to screenings for only a few dollars, and they also have fun artsy events going on here. One of the cooler parts of Hartford.

I drove an hour to Real Art Ways as they were the only theater in the state, that was showing the film I wished to see. I arrived. Parking was ample. The theater is beautiful. There are showings from local artists in surrounding rooms. Best of all is the terrific concession stand with some interesting choices, fair prices and far and away the best popcorn I have had in years. The ticket/concession stand seller was working only his 2nd day, but was efficient and had an amazing energy. The vibe of the theater is 2nd to none. My seat was a bit uncomfortable. There was also a draft that had my sweatshirt on. However, after I mentioned it to a worker, they took care of that problem I would not hesitate to make the long drive again.

I love Real Art Ways, mostly because I love Creative Cocktail Hour, and as someone who loves parties, I would say this is the best party in Hartford. Real Art Ways covers a lot of bases in a city that isn't all that culturally exciting; it's the go-to for foreign and indie films, talks, performances, gallery openings, and other events I don't necessarily know much about, because like I said, I'm mostly in it for the parties. Creative Cocktail Hour, which is the third Thursday of every month, is a great party that almost makes you feel like you're somewhere more hip than Connecticut. The crowd is eclectic, there's always a dj or live music, sometimes there are things like burlesque and interactive art exhibits, and it doesn't hurt that so many good looking people are always in attendance. It's a diamond in a pretty rough city. Check out their schedule online and go enjoy.

I love Real Art Ways. It provides such interesting events, film, and art exhibits, for people of all ages. My family and I have been members for several years now, and really enjoy all the benefits of membership (membership is very affordable- $50 yearly). Films are only $5 for members, and there are always the "off the beaten path" movies playing, ones that you won't find at any cinema nearby. Often, there are discussions post-movie about a topic that was featured. The art exhibits are wonderful and often feature unique pieces created from interesting materials. I enjoy wandering through the exhibits before seeing a film. The events that RAW holds are the best part, for sure. Their creative cocktail hour is a monthly gathering of folks for exactly that- a unique, creative few hours of art, cocktail, performances, food, music... Last year, RAW hosted the "Taste" series, which I fell in love with. Each segment featured a short film, focusing on food and wine, then a discussion and food presentation by a different local chef. It was a wonderful way to get to know my favorite chefs better and to try different things! Overall- RAW is simply one of the best things Hartford has to offer.

This is a great independent movie house, showing a variety of films you won't see in the main movie chains. Some of the films are subtitled but don't let that scare you away. Some of the films are documentaries. There is a very comfortable atmosphere. You can buy a soda or a glass of dine or cup of coffee and you can bring it into the theater. There is also an open art gallery to peruse while waiting for your movie to start. Some great pieces and some that keep you guessing. All in all a fun place to visit.

I have at least a few good stories that start with "Remember that time at Real Art Ways..." This place is memorable because it is eclectic, eccentric, creative, and thought provoking. It's also a great venue for socializing and people watching. They also have constantly changing, current, captivating art exhibits. Their cinema plays movies that are avant garde, intellectual, risque, provocative, non-sensical, hilarious...and you can drink beer, wine, or a cocktail in the theater. What's not to love about that? One thing that I appreciate about Creative Cocktail Hour is that there is always a diverse, mixed-age crowd present. It's definitely more refined and intriguing than a typical social interaction on the bar scene. I recently saw Crispin Glover at RAW and it pretty much made some random, fantastical corner of my life complete. The only down side for me is that Real Art Ways is located about an hour from home. If I lived closer to Hartford I'd definitely take advantage of this wonderful venue more often.

Always worthwhile independent films at Real Art Ways, plus you can bring in hot apple cider (seasonal), coffee, beer, or any of the unique concessions from the Cafe. Generally interesting art exhibits, fun events so I hear (have yet to attend 3rd Thursdays Creative Cocktail Hour). Very comfortable lounge areas, nice overall environment.

I've been in this town for 30 years and RAW is the only thing which continues to improve. Great movies, art exhibitions, concerts, lectures..... that you won't find in predictable conventional museums or for-profit spaces. Run for the last forever by Will K Wilkins who is a smart guy and takes no aesthetic shit. They got cocktail parties, board games, senior groups, reading programs....almost everything a tuned-in community responsive arts organization should be but almost never is.

I really like this place. I've been to a few movies here, and one free concert. The gallery is a nice extra, and the atmosphere is great.

This is such a cool place to have in Hartford. Creative Cocktail hour is a great way to have some fun and see great art. I have also been here for the Odd Ball a few times, and to see a movie once or twice. The space is great, they have a cute little bar with snacks, and parking is easy.

Great events, best indie / foreign films. Become a member, films are only $5. And real butter on the popcorn. I'm a huge fan!

I just realized I'd never reviewed this place! Shameful. Where else in the immediate vicinity can you drink prosecco and enjoy a cheese plate or a cold beer with popcorn whilst watching a fantastic indie film, followed up by a stroll around an art exhibit? Nowhere! This is it. It's a no-brainer, dearests.

Great place, can't help falling in love with it, it's off the beaten path and really worth checking out.

Varied and engaging film programming in a venue you'll feel good about supporting with the price of your ticket.

This place is so CREATIVE with the events they hold, as well as the layout. You get many things all in one stop (movies, art, music, etc). I have enjoyed myself every time I come here.

We LOVE there popcorn I let my daughters choose the seasoning (for popcorn) and great Oscar animated movie

I love that there is a place like this in CT. The movies are great, not expensive, and the art is cool. Staff is always friendly. It's a little piece of the west coast in my backyard :)

I took my husband here as part of his birthday extravaganza to see a movie. I love indie films and lived in NYC for some time, where I enjoyed good access to independent film houses. With that as background, having recently moved to the area, I was happily surprised to stumble upon the Real Artways listing on none other than the great Yelp! The movie was fantastic, many in the crowd appeared to be regulars and thus there was a friendly, warm vibe inside the theater itself. I can't recall the exact offerings at the concession stand, but I was quite pleased that I was able to order a hot herbal tea, despite it being June. Staff was friendly and approachable. I can't wait to return to watch another film soon.

I can't say enough about how awesome this place is. My company frequently holds events here and it is amazing. The whole staff is wonderful - specifically Jess who is incredibly helpful. The space itself is really cool - several different galleries that always have an interesting installation, and a very comfortable theater. Everything is very reasonably priced as well. While I've unfortunately never been for a movie or creative cocktail hour (I hear they're both wonderful though), I would highly recommend the space for anyone looking to hold an event at a unique space.