Boston, Massachusetts — Collective Arts Brewing fuses the creativity of brewing with the inspired talents of emerging artists and musicians. This creative collision of beer, art, and music has resulted in Collective Arts creating a diverse portfolio of beers that have featured over 520 works of art and music on its beer labels, cans, and coasters. Founded in 2013 by Matt Johnston and Bob Russell, Collective Arts started as a cross-border company with Johnston in Canada and Russell in Vermont. They started brewing three years ago to the day, and are now excited to finally make their beers available in Russell’s backyard. They are kicking off the week of September 19th in Boston with a series of events.
Johnston states, “Collective Arts is founded on creativity. Our beers are designed to be as creative, diverse, and unwavering as the artists we profile.” Collective Arts brewing team, led by Ryan Morrow, have been well-recognized for their talents with many of the beers being rated among the best on RateBeer, BeerAdvocate and Untapped. Collective’s core portfolio includes a Gose, Citrus Blonde Ale, Extra Pale Ale, Session IPA, IPA, and a Porter. The Porter took home bronze at the World Beer Cup in early 2016 and is listed in the Top 20 for English Porters on BeerAdvocate. The Citrus Blonde Ale is listed in the Top 30 on BeerAdvocate for Blonde Ales. In addition to the core portfolio, Collective Arts releases seasonal brews, or “Collective Projects”. The current season includes a Sour Pumpkin Saison.
Russell goes further to explain, “We are a team of creative junkies. We distain the status quo; instead we choose creativity and collaboration. Featuring the work of emerging artists ensures our brand is always evolving.” Through ongoing calls Collective Arts has received over 10,000 submissions by artists and musicians from 40 countries. To reflect the emerging trends, they recruit creative industry leaders to curate each series. Collective Arts is committed to promoting and supporting the artists; to date they have paid over $110,000 to the featured artists while taking no ownership of the works. Collective Arts goes further, using augmented reality on its beer labels, cans, and coasters to connect the drinkers with the artists. This unique approach to supporting artists has been recognized by the likes of Adobe Create and Draft Magazine.
Collective Arts expansion into New England is a big and exciting step for these craft brewers from north of the 49th parallel. They are hiring a local team and have partnered with the Craft Brewers Guild across New England, “We can’t think of anyone better to represent us, they are best in class and we know they will take great care of our beer,” Johnston explains. Also, they have recently launched a Call for Art with a focus on artists and urban art from the North East. Collective Arts will be launching with a portfolio of eight beers, with a series of launch events that are listed on Collective Arts website.