These are some of my favorite resources for artists and art classes in Omaha, including organizations, collectives, bead shops, and now bead shows.

They offer a mix of supplies, community support, educational opportunities, and events to inspire creativity. Whether you're into beading, contemporary art, or community workshops, these spots can help you connect and grow.

Foxy Squirrel Bead and Boutique

A brick & mortar bead shop serving local and regional beaders and other artisans. Offers beads and boutique items for creative projects. Location: Rockbrook Village, Omaha, NE Website: https://foxysquirrelbeadandboutique.com/

Fellowship of Catholic Artists

An apostolate of beauty that brings beauty into the world through art, including vibrant paintings, soulful music, intricate sculptures, and evocative poetry. Supports Catholic artists in the Omaha and surrounding area by encouraging growth in art and faith, with monthly meetings and events. Location: Omaha and Gretna, NE area (meets at Holy Family Shrine) Website: https://www.fellowshipofcatholicartists.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fellowshipofcatholicartists

Papio Beads (Papio Creek Gems & Gifts)

Family-owned and operated source for custom jewelry creation, repair, gemstone cutting, and beads. Specializes in beads, gemstones, finished jewelry, findings, and more for artists and crafters. Location: 3412 S 144th St, Omaha, NE 68144 Website: http://www.papiobeads.com/

Bead Shows and Events in Omaha

These annual events bring together vendors, classes, and demonstrations for beaders, jewelry makers, and gem enthusiasts. Check websites for the latest 2026 dates and details as they become available.

Omaha Bead Affair

Annual bead show featuring regional vendors with jewelry making supplies, seed beads, gemstones, glass beads, crystals, and more. Includes classes for all levels, glass bead making demonstrations, Artist Row for handmade jewelry, and support for Beads of Courage program. Organized by the Omaha Beady Bunch and Midwest Lampworkers Guild. Dates: Typically in April (2025 was April 26-27; check for 2026 updates) Location: LaVista Community Center, 8116 Park View Blvd, LaVista, NE 68128 Website: http://www.omahabeadaffair.com/ Admission: $5 at the door; free for class participants.

Omaha Gem & Mineral Show

Annual show focusing on gems, minerals, fossils, and jewelry. Features vendors, displays, and opportunities for artists and collectors. Dates: November 2026 TBD Location: Liberty First Credit Union Arena, 7300 Q Street, Ralston, NE 68127 Website: Check local gem club sites or https://xpopress.com/show/state/Nebraska for updates.

Additional Resources

The Union for Contemporary Art

Strengthens the creative culture by providing direct support to local artists, including residencies, studios, exhibitions, and community programs like youth programming and neighborhood arts. Location: Omaha, NE Website: https://www.u-ca.org/

Amplify Arts

Provides resources for artists, organizers, and cultural workers to incubate ideas. Offers grants, public art opportunities, community events, and direct financial support. Location: 950 South 10th Street, Omaha, NE 68108 Website: https://www.amplifyarts.org/

Nebraskans for the Arts

Advocacy group representing arts organizations and individuals across Nebraska, with resources for advocacy, education, economic impact data, and empowerment for reaching out to policymakers. Location: P.O. Box 8517, Omaha, NE 68108 Website: https://www.nebraskansforthearts.org/

Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts

Facilitates creation and presentation of contemporary art through residencies, exhibitions, and public programs. Offers private live/work studios, financial support, and workshops. Location: Omaha, NE Website: https://www.bemiscenter.org/

Nebraska Arts Council

State agency providing grants, programming, and opportunities to impact lives through art. Includes artist directories, roster for hiring artists, and funding options. Location: Statewide, based in Nebraska Website: https://www.artscouncil.nebraska.gov/

Hot Shops Art Center

Community art center offering classes, studios, events, and opportunities for resident artists. Open to the public with various mediums and artist studios, including lampworking and beadmaking classes. Location: Omaha, NE Website: https://www.hotshopsartcenter.com/

402 Arts Collective

Connects students and community members with opportunities in music, visual art, writing, and acting through classes and programs for ages 5–99. Location: 6051 Maple St, Omaha, NE 68104 Website: https://402artscollective.org/

Cali Commons

Fosters creativity and connectivity by showcasing local artists through pop-up shows, community engagement, and supporting artistic development. Location: Omaha, NE Website: https://calicommons.com/