using the arts and arts education to expand notions of who belongs on Cape Cod
We believe Cape Codders are the main characters in the story of Cape Cod; not accessories to someone else’s vacation.
Our new location with Belonging Books at 438 Main St, Hyannis, is open! Visit our new space Monday - Thursday, 11 am - 3 pm and Monday and Friday evenings from 4 pm - 8 pm.
Our Mission
The Cordial Eye is a community arts organization based on the Mid-Cape that strives to use the arts and arts education as a tool for expanding the definition of who belongs on Cape Cod and what it means to be a creative person here. We are dedicated to dismantling systems of oppression in our community by creating space for marginalized groups to amplify their impact in creating a more just and equitable world, through gathering, experimentation, exhibitions, and cultural expression.
What we do
Our two branches - The Cordial Eye Artist Space, which provides performance, exhibition, and professional development opportunities for artists, and The Cordial Eye Learning Lab, which provides educational opportunities for learners of all ages- are committed to centering the voices and needs of historically-excluded communities. By creating programming by, for, and with these communities- which include BIPOC folks, LGBTQ+ folks, disabled folks, and folks with financial barriers to access- we seek to create a Cape Cod that is vibrant, equitable, and a place of belonging for all
Upcoming events
Connect to your creativity with arts classes in our learning lab
The Hyannis COmmunity Art Wall is Closing September 1!
After two years of community collaboration, our time with the Hyannis Community Art Wall is coming to an end. On September 1st, the Hyannis Public Library will begin construction, and at that time, the art wall will need to come down. In the meantime, the wall is open to community members to add to during library hours and is BYOP (bring your own paint). We have so enjoyed getting to see it evolve over time as community members contribute to it, and are grateful to have served as youth accomplices to see this project through.
Join us on Friday, December 19th, at 6pm for a special holiday singalong! The Cordial Eye is hosting a celebration of songwriter Sufjan Stevens’ body of holiday music–known as “Sufmas,” these singalongs happen across the country each year. As a gay man, Stevens’ work has long served as a bridge between queerness and spirituality and has become beloved to LGBTQ+ people and allies who celebrate the intersection of these identities. We recognize that many queer people have experienced alienation and harm from their families and faith communities–a pain that is especially resonant during the holiday season. This singalong is an affirmation that everyone deserves to be included in the loving embrace of family and holiday celebrations- and that repair from past harm is possible.
Join us for a singalong with live band, a special read-aloud with author Sophia Flowers, community artmaking, and some sweet treats. Note- This is a non-religious event: people of all faiths or no faith are most welcome. For all ages! $5 suggested donation.