Piedmont Arts Association | Martinsville

Overview and Mission

Piedmont Arts Association, commonly known as Piedmont Arts, is a nonprofit cultural institution located in Martinsville, Virginia. It operates as an art museum and an educational outreach center with a strong commitment to enriching its community through arts. Its mission is to inspire and engage people of all ages by offering rotating visual art exhibitions, live performing arts, and extensive educational programs designed to foster creativity and cultural appreciation. The institution emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity by maintaining free admission to its facilities.

Historical Development

The origins of Piedmont Arts date back to 1961, founded as a part of a statewide initiative led by the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) aimed at fostering regional art centers. Local artists, including notable figures such as Jessamine Shumate, were instrumental in establishing the organization. In 1976, Piedmont Arts was formally incorporated, and by 1978, it became an official affiliate of the VMFA, solidifying its status as a key cultural institution in the region.

A major milestone occurred in 1981 when Piedmont Arts acquired the Schottland Estate, a historic property that became its permanent home. This acquisition was pivotal, enabling the association to develop dedicated galleries and administrative spaces, as well as establishing an endowment to support long-term sustainability. Subsequent expansion in 1998 added a new wing featuring multiple galleries, classrooms for educational programs, and a performance hall, significantly enhancing its capacity to serve the community.

Facilities and Location

Piedmont Arts is housed at 215 Starling Avenue in Martinsville, Virginia, within the Schottland Estate complex. The facility includes:

Seven art galleries showcasing diverse exhibitions

A dedicated performance hall that accommodates live theatre, music, and dance

Classrooms and studios for educational workshops and camps

A Discovery Room designed to engage younger visitors interactively

A library resource center for art research and study

A gift shop offering artwork and crafts by local and regional artists

The design and layout of the facility promote both the presentation of professional art exhibitions and the hosting of community-oriented cultural events.

Exhibitions and Programming

Piedmont Arts maintains a vibrant exhibition schedule, typically hosting six major exhibitions annually. These exhibits feature a blend of nationally and internationally recognized artists alongside regional talent. The gallery spaces are used dynamically to highlight contemporary visual arts across various media, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.

In addition to the rotating main exhibitions, the association supports local artists through the Lynwood Artists Gallery, where regional artists can display and sell their works. This initiative fosters a connection between the institution and the local creative community.

The association also hosts the “On Stage” performing arts series, established in 1991. This program presents a range of live performances including music concerts, theatrical productions, dance performances, and family-oriented shows. The diversity of performing arts programming complements the visual art exhibitions, creating a comprehensive cultural experience.

Educational Outreach and Community Engagement

Education is a core pillar of Piedmont Arts. Its educational offerings include:

Art camps for children and youth during school breaks

Adult and youth art classes and workshops focusing on various techniques and media

The Teen Arts Council, which encourages young people to engage with and contribute to the arts community

School outreach programs that bring arts education directly into local classrooms and provide field trip opportunities to the museum

Guided tours for groups and visitors to deepen understanding of the exhibitions and the creative process

The Discovery Room offers hands-on art activities designed for families and young children, supporting early arts education and creative exploration.

Piedmont Arts also actively collaborates with local organizations such as the Lynwood Artists, YMCA, theatre groups, and historical societies. These partnerships enhance the range of programming and promote arts engagement throughout the region.

Public Art and Cultural Impact

Beyond the museum walls, Piedmont Arts has contributed significantly to the cultural landscape of Martinsville. It coordinates walking tours featuring public murals, sculptures, and outdoor art installations, enriching the community’s urban environment. The Gravely-Lester Art Garden, opened in 2017, is an outdoor space showcasing sculptures and providing a venue for community gatherings and events.

Through these public art initiatives, Piedmont Arts extends its mission to connect the arts with everyday life, fostering civic pride and cultural tourism in the region.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

The institution maintains a commitment to making the arts accessible to all by offering free admission. Its hours of operation are Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. It is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and major holidays.

Visitors benefit from a well-curated experience that includes multiple galleries, performance events, educational workshops, and a welcoming atmosphere suited for families, students, and art enthusiasts alike.

Recognition and Accreditation

Piedmont Arts is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, a prestigious designation that reflects its adherence to professional standards in museum management, governance, and public service. The association received this accreditation first in 2003 and was reaccredited in 2019, underscoring its ongoing commitment to excellence.

The association has also been honored with several awards recognizing its contributions to arts education and community development, including the Virginia Alliance for Arts Education Distinguished Service Award and the Dominion ArtStars Shining Star Award. In 2016, it received a National Endowment for the Arts “Our Town” grant, further supporting its community arts initiatives.

Summary

Piedmont Arts Association serves as a vital cultural and educational resource in Martinsville, Virginia. With deep historical roots, state-of-the-art facilities, and a broad range of artistic programming, it fosters community engagement and cultural enrichment. Its blend of visual and performing arts, educational outreach, and public art initiatives create an inclusive environment that inspires creativity and supports lifelong learning. The free admission policy and active partnerships with local organizations ensure Piedmont Arts remains accessible and deeply integrated within its community.

This detailed profile captures the multifaceted nature of Piedmont Arts Association as both a museum and a community arts center, highlighting its sustained impact on regional culture and education.