If there’s a beehive around which the city’s arts scene buzzes, it’s Hygienic Art and the Hygienic Art Park. Located in a spot formerly occupied by the Hygienic Diner – a congenial dive where New London’s dreamers, drinkers, poets and musicians gathered to fantasize about What SHOULD Happen if THEY Ran Things.

You know what? They organized as a nonprofit, obtained the property – and over two decades built a magnificent two-story gallery with live-in apartments for artists, and a wonderful outdoor performance venue. Their community and creative spirit lives on.

Each January, the Hygienic hosts the annual midwinter Salons de Independents – part open-call art show, midwinter carnival and Mardi Gras – and the year-round calendar is full of activities, exhibits, festivals and live music ranging from the vibrant New London scene to national touring acts.

Hygienic Art, 79-83 Bank St., New London; www.hygienic.org, (860) 443-8001.