October has arrived across Virginia — bringing crisp temperatures, turning leaves and yards dotted with spooky decor. If you’ve been feeling something stirring inside you, encouraging a day trip or a weekend getaway, don’t blame it on the weather alone. It’s probably just your heart nudging you to come explore all of Farmville’s “art-portunities.” Whether you want to put your hands to work creating your own masterpiece or get up close and personal with paintings in the halls of the Longwood Center for the Visual Arts, we have options for you. Follow the creative call of the wild and join us in Farmville for an art-laden adventure as we discover the best art in the heart of Virginia.
Art Your Heart Out
What could be better than art that comes straight from your heart? If you feel like you’ve been creatively blocked since your last high school art class, don’t worry. Our local art experts are ready and waiting to guide you through the creative process from start to finish.
At Red Door 104, you can sign up for paint parties suitable for skilled painters as well as novices. Unleash your inner Picasso with a paintbrush and a glass of wine — and leave with a painting you’ll be proud to hang in your home or office. Proprietor Audrey Sullivan rotates her selection, so check the company’s website and Facebook for other offerings such as photography workshops, felting classes and more.
Mainly Clay, located a few doors down on North Main Street, gives new meaning to the term “hands on” with a selection of classes that will have you up to your elbows in mud and water and having the time of your life. From making clay flowers to designing a house for your favorite toad, you will be able to fire and finish your piece as you enjoy a special sense of accomplishment. Make sure to check Mainly Clay’s website or Facebook for their most current workshop dates and offerings. Don’t forget to browse the selection of local pottery in the front studio before you go!
Art and About
Some people enjoy the visual experience of art more than creating it themselves. If you are a lover of beautiful paintings, creative design and breathtaking sculptures, these are the “can’t miss” spots you need to see.
Longwood Center for the Visual Arts
If you’re a fan of folk art, modern art and art deco, don’t miss the Longwood Center for the Visual Arts (LCVA). Centrally located in the heart of downtown Farmville, the LCVA offers rotating exhibitions as well as workshops, lectures and a summer art camp for school-age artists.
From professionally done triptychs by renowned artist (and Farmville native) Monty Montgomery to locally painted pieces, Farmville is brilliantly decorated with stunning murals. They are ALL worth a peek. Take a look at Visit Farmville’s mural picks for some of the latest additions to the list.
Brock Commons and Longwood University
Stroll the campus to enjoy the university’s modern art inspired sculptures, each of which are installed for two years at a time. If you have additional time, you can view Longwood’s extensive art collection, amassed over one hundred years and visible in almost every building on campus.
Art with an Appetite
If you are ready for a bite after all that creativity, look no further than Riverside Cafe located at 522 N. Main Street. The best part? There’s even more art! This locally adored restaurant doubles as a permanent exhibit for the Central Virginia Arts (CVA). Founded in 1965 as a partner of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, the CVA offers member artists lectures, workshops, exhibits tours and socials throughout the year.
“Farmville’s become an art destination,” CVA President Cynthia Wood says. “We welcome all artists and art lovers.”
We hope your artistic escape to Farmville will inspire you to create, discover and enjoy the beauty of the fall season. Don’t forget to share your pictures with us via #visitfarmville.