By Michele Taranto

Art is in the eyes of the beholder. In other words, art is personal. It is certainly individual. And it can be small, at least in Norwood. At Custom Art Framing, 45 Central St., owner Julie Vecchio, opened a new art gallery that doesn’t play by the rules. First, everything is free, and second, everything is smaller than a photograph. It is called the Free Little Art Gallery (FLAG), and is located in front of her frame shop, Custom Art Framing. FLAG is a small but powerful art studio that packs a big punch for the Norwood art community; and its open 24 hours a day.

“The goal of the FLAG is interaction,” Vecchio said. “Art is a universal language that can be understood by people of all ages and all walks of life. Whether it’s a miniature painting, words on a small rock, or an origami crane, everyone can contribute.”

The FLAG idea was initiated by Lynda Bassett and Marypaz, from the Norwood Cultural Council. They approached Vecchio with the proposal as her frame shop was the perfect site to showcase local artists. It only took a few weeks to construct the glass case, and a formal ribbon cutting ceremony was held on November 16. 

The concept is similar to the little free libraries that have grown in popularity throughout towns the past few years. The difference is, books are written by other people, then shared with the free library. With the art gallery, creating a personal version of art is highly encouraged. If you see something in the gallery you like, take it home. If you create something you want to share, leave it for someone else to take away and love. 

FLAGS are popping up all over the world, and there is even a website with a gallery locator and information for gallery owners and artists. As of June, 2024, there were 574 mapped FLAGS recorded. Fourteen FLAGs are listed in Massachusetts, and yes, Custom Art Framing in Norwood, is included in the directory!

Artists of all ages are encouraged to share and remove from the art gallery. It is just a matter of opening the door, any time of day, 365 days of the year. A 3” x 3” is a recommended size to ensure ample room for showcasing. If the case fills up, pop into Custom Art Framing to drop a piece off. 

“We’re happy to add it when space becomes available,” Vecchio said. “The work is constantly rotating.”

According to Vecchio, many people, either by chance or previous visitors, stop by Norwood’s FLAG regularly. 

“Our FLAG is situated by the entrance of Custom Art Framing, 45 Central St.,” Vecchio said. A large window allows us to watch people interact with our FLAG. It’s so fun and don’t be surprised if I run out to take a picture for our Instagram page @freelittleartgallery_norwood. Follow us there and stay connected.”

FLAGs is an intriguing resource for artists to share their work and just one of many ideas that has the Norwood artists’ community growing.

“Whether it’s contributing, taking a piece for your collection, or just noticing the FLAG, it’s thoughtful and sparks your imagination,” Vecchio said.

To learn more about the Norwood artist community, visit the Norwood Cultural Council website at https://massculturalcouncil.org/local-council/norwood/. For information about FLAGs, visit https://freelittleartgalleries.art/.