The Delaware Valley Arts Alliance (DVAA) is once again rolling out its walls for the most anticipated small works show in the region: the 21st annual “Art in Sixes” exhibition, opening Saturday in Narrowsburg. With over 700 pieces submitted by artists from across the Upper Delaware River Valley, it’s the biggest little show of the year.
Each piece in the show measures six inches or less in any direction and is priced between $60 and $600, making it a perfect venue for both seasoned collectors and first-time buyers. The event is known for turning the DVAA’s gallery spaces into a vibrant mosaic of creativity, featuring drawings, paintings, sculpture, fiber arts, woodwork, and more.
Originally founded by former gallery manager Rocky Pinciotti in 2002, “Art in Sixes” was designed to welcome artists of all levels. “It was a way for people to get to know each other through art,” said current Executive Director Ariel Shanberg. “This show has been the first exhibition for many of our local artists.”
Now curated by Gallery and Grants Manager Tanner Simon, the show has become a masterclass in curatorial logistics. Simon arranges over 700 pieces across labeled grids in the gallery, aiming for visual cohesion by matching colors, frame sizes, and shapes rather than grouping by subject matter. “Each wall becomes an artwork of its own,” he explained.
This year’s show also includes a heartwarming expansion: the Kids Make Sixes program, featuring more than 140 works by local students from schools like Sullivan West, Tri-Valley, Liberty, and Wayne Highlands. Thanks to a donation of 120 canvas panels from Dick Blick Art Supplies, even the youngest artists are getting their moment in the spotlight.
For many of these students, it’s their first public exhibition, and some will even experience their first sale. “They light up when they see that red dot on their work,” said Simon, referring to the stickers that mark a piece as sold.
The opening reception on Saturday from 3 to 6 p.m. will include refreshments and a private preview from 2 to 3 p.m. for participating artists and DVAA members at the sponsor level or higher. Attendees are encouraged to bring six non-perishable food items to support the Narrowsburg Ecumenical Food Pantry, in the spirit of the season—and the show’s six-by-six theme.
“This show is a celebration,” said Shanberg. “It feels like a family reunion and a launch into the holiday season all at once.”
The exhibition runs through the end of the year at the DVAA’s gallery on Main Street in Narrowsburg. For more information, visit delawarevalleyartsalliance.org.