The Berrima District Art Society was founded in October 1950 by Kath Smith and a committee of interested members of the general public. In 1970 the Society acquired, through the generosity of Edgar Bent, a cottage in Short Street, Bowral, which is still its permanent home. The Berrima District Art Society is now a very active centre for the arts in the Southern Highlands and prides itself on being committed to the appreciation of the arts in the Southern. They are committed to promoting and supporting the practice and appreciation of the arts in the Southern Highlands
In 1993 a separate building was built in the grounds to accommodate workshops. A variety of classes and workshops are held in this building for adults and children. The workshops cover painting in all mediums, drawing including life drawing, printmaking and many other subjects.
