The best arts & culture spots in Brunswick County

“Head to the Old Brunswick County Jail in Southport to step into a restored 1904 brick lockup, complete with the jailer’s quarters and those delightfully bleak cells where Sissy Spacek filmed scenes for Crimes of the Heart. Knowledgeable docents make history lively, and yes, a behind-bars selfie is basically required.”

“Meet your new wall crush, W. K. Johnson Artist turns bold contemporary abstracts into pieces that actually feel alive, including the striking Resonance Series.”

From the Leland newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Bright venue featuring locally crafted art and unique gift items plus wine tastings, as well as local artist creations and wine sales.”

“Reachable by ferry, this long-standing lighthouse offers tours, plus museum with maritime exhibits.”

“Whether your walls crave coastal sunlight or mountain blues, Southport's Ricky Evans Gallery has originals, prints, and a gift shop with ornaments, mini framed canvases, and artful merch. You can even use Live Preview AR to see pieces on your wall before you commit.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Run by the Artisans Association, a group of Brunswick County artists, Artisans Gallery On Howe fills a historic Howe Street space with fine art and hand-crafted gifts from more than 60 local artists, including pottery, jewelry, paintings, woodwork, glass, fiber arts, photography, and books by local authors.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 4, 2026

“Franklin Square Gallery is a cooperative run by the Associated Artists of Southport, showcasing painters, photographers, potters, and glass or ceramic sculptors in historic Southport.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, September 17, 2026

“Whether you've fished these waters forever or just love a good coastal story, the North Carolina Maritime Museum at Southport digs into the Lower Cape Fear’s maritime past with real deal artifacts and smart storytelling. Pop in this week, peek at upcoming programs, maybe even get involved with Friends of the Museum.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 8, 2026

“Since 2015, Leland Cultural Arts Center has been the town’s hub for hands-on programs and community events, growing every session. Peek the calendar, drop into Open Studios, or explore artist opportunities... a low-stress way to try something new and feel more plugged into your own backyard.”

From the Leland newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site is perfect for a midweek reset, with paved trails threading through the quiet ruins of a town church and a museum that makes our local past feel close enough to touch. Sneak it into your week for a calm bit of time travel.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 24, 2026

“Art studio offering painting classes with wine for both private groups and the public.”

“Got songs sitting in your Notes app? Skyrecords helps Brunswick County artists turn ideas into clean, shareable tracks with a focused studio environment that keeps sessions moving. Give your project a few hours this week and finally hear it the way it’s meant to sound.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 28, 2026

“Sandalwood Shoppes brings 40+ local shops under one roof, with a curated mix of gifts, home decor, and boutique fashion from independent business owners. Perfect for that birthday you forgot, teacher thank-you, or a quick self-care splurge... because errands should occasionally be fun.”

From the Brunswick County newsletter, August 12, 2026