The Hive Collective to Open Its Doors in Downtown Amherst on May 29

AMHERST — On Friday, May 29, the Hive Collective — a new, multi-functional creative hub dedicated to increasing arts participation and cultural access in downtown Amherst — will officially open its doors at 49 Boltwood Walk with a grand opening celebration from 2 to 4 p.m.

Bringing together an arts market, gallery, and maker space under one roof, the Hive Collective is designed to be a place where local artists, makers, and educators can connect, create, and share their work with the community. A collaboration between the Amherst Business Improvement District (BID), Amherst Innovative Living, and the Amherst Center Cultural District, the space will be open Wednesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 2 to 8 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

“At the Hive Collective, we’re here to shine a light on local craftsmanship and the real people behind it,” founder Aaron Andrews said. “I’ve always felt strongly that people should be able to work for themselves, and I’m excited to give artists a place to do just that — to own their work, their brand, their future. I’ve hit walls in the arts myself, so I understand firsthand how much it matters to have a space that actually makes room for local artists, makers, and educators.”

John Page, executive director of the Amherst BID, added that “activating this pop-up maker space and market is part of our ongoing work to attract more brick and mortar retail businesses and cultivate the creative economy in Amherst. We are grateful to all the partners that have come together to make this possible and are excited to see how this space evolves in the coming months.”

The Hive Collective is seeking local artisans and makers of all crafts, including woodworking, painting, pottery, knitwear, and more, to join the collective ahead of opening day. For more information or if interested in getting involved, email Andrews at [email protected].

“We’re thrilled to partner with the Amherst BID to bring fresh energy and creativity to our space at Boltwood Walk,” said Alex Laguerra Sierra of Amherst Innovative Living, which manages the building. “Watching it come to life through vibrant spring window art, local artist displays, and engaging programs is exactly the kind of community-driven activation we strive for. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to supporting local makers, fostering meaningful connections, and continuing to invest in a vibrant, dynamic downtown Amherst.”