Celebrate the season of giving with a gift that sparks creativity all year long

As we close out the year, we invite you to help keep the arts vibrant in Martinsville-Henry County.

Your year-end gift supports exhibitions, performances, and arts education programs that spark creativity, bring our community together, and open doors for learners of all ages.

With your generosity, Piedmont Arts can continue offering meaningful cultural experiences, from blockbuster exhibitions to world-class performances to hands-on workshops that reach every corner of our community.

Give now and be part of the art that moves our community forward.

If you would like to support Piedmont Arts through a stock exchange or non-cash contribution, click here to learn more.

Give Now

Thank you for supporting a creative, connected, and inspired Martinsville-Henry County.

Winter Break: Things To Do

Express your creativity in the Discovery Room

The Discovery Room is a vibrant, hands-on space where children of all ages can follow their curiosity and express their creativity. Whether they’re painting, drawing, making music, or putting on a puppet show, every child is invited to explore, imagine, and play in their own way.
The Discovery Room is free and open to the public during business hours.

Learn more

Exhibits

Peace Post
On view through Jan. 10

The stories that permeate our newsfeeds have become increasingly dark. To shine a light on some of the individuals who stand against injustice and advocate for peace, this project asked artists to create a series of digital stamps featuring portraits of these heroes, one for each sovereign nation. The result is a collection of 198 portraits of peace advocates created by more than 100 artists.

In conjunction with this exhibit, students in the gifted program at Fieldale-Collinsville and Laurel Park middle schools created artwork inspired by the work of peace advocates around the world. Each piece includes a QR code linking to a presentation about the artist’s chosen peace advocate.

Learn more

Legible Earth: The Fire Tapestries
On view through Jan. 10

Leah Raintree’s work engages the interconnection between humanity, time, and the Earth. This exhibit marks the 10th anniversary of the Valley Fire in Northern California, when Raintree’s sister and her family lost their home to wildfire. Borrowing from the language of ancient tapestries that survive as storytellers, these intricate line drawings are interwoven with washes of wildfire char and address the impacts of wildfire on ecological and human communities.

Learn more

Depicting the Moment
On view through Jan. 10

Donald Towns is a painter, background animation illustrator, and art director. He finds inspiration in a variety of subjects, such as nature, architecture, and everyday objects. His experience in the motion picture industry has influenced his painting, giving his work the ethereal appearance of animated movie stills.

Learn more

Inspired Creations
On view through Jan. 10

The Lynwood Artists Gallery features a selection of “inspired creations” by the group’s members.

Lynwood Artists is an organization for practicing artists in the Martinsville-Henry County area. Its members share a desire to stimulate understanding and enjoyment of fine art, while providing artists with opportunities to exhibit and develop their talents.

Learn more

Foster Gallery
On view through Jan. 10

The Foster Gallery features an exhibit of work by students attending Bassett High School, Carlisle Upper School, Magna Vista High School, and Martinsville High School.

Exhibits in the gallery are curated in partnership with the Charity League of Martinsville and Henry County. A new exhibit is installed every six to eight weeks, allowing work by students from all 19 schools in Martinsville-Henry County to be displayed during the year.

Learn more

Upcoming Events

Exhibit Opening Reception
5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23, Piedmont Arts

Join Piedmont Arts for an opening reception in honor of its new exhibits from 5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23, at Piedmont Arts. A gallery talk will be held at 6:15 p.m. Complimentary refreshments will be served.

Exhibits on view:
• American Watercolor Society 158th Traveling Exhibition
• Act II: Paintings by Gail Doyle Smith
• Works by King’s Grant Residents

This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP with the number and names of the attendees in your party by Wednesday, Jan. 21.

RSVP online

African American Read-In + Family Day
10 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 7, Piedmont Arts

The annual African American Read-In + Family Day will take place from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 7, at Piedmont Arts.

Griot Fred Motley will entertain with folktales, and the Kuumba West African Dance Company will share traditional folklore through song, music, and dance. Children can create a free craft with members of the Teen Arts Council. The Piedmont Arts Guild will give away door prizes. Snacks will be available. This event is free, and all ages are welcome.

Learn more

Dancing for the Arts 2026
3 p.m., Saturday, March 14, MHS Auditorium

Dancing for the Arts, the fabulous fundraiser for Piedmont Arts, returns to the stage at 3 p.m., Saturday, March 14, at Martinsville High School Auditorium.

In this dazzling, high-energy dance competition, teams of local celebrities and community leaders compete for a cause — supporting the arts! Your votes support your favorite teams and the arts in Martinsville-Henry County.

Admission tickets are $30 for reserved seating, $20 for general admission and $10 for students in grades K-12.

DFTA teams:
• Katie Adkins + Brandon Johnson
• Shan’Tyia Hairston + Maurice Breedlove
• Tiffanie Hairston + Brian Hairston
• Sarah Hodges + Kasey Lucas
• Elizabeth Huerta + Alfredo Huerta
• Shatera Robertson + Louis Norton
• Margie Price-Savedge + Christopher Janey
• Melissa White + Al Herndon

Tickets + Voting

Mike Wiley: A Game Apart
Thursday, March 26, Piedmont Arts

Actor and playwright Mike Wiley will perform “A Game Apart,” a one-person play about baseball legend Jackie Robinson, on Thursday, March 26, at Piedmont Arts. A reception will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by the performance at 7 p.m. in the galleries.

“A Game Apart” offers a powerful lesson of courage through dedication, perseverance, and leadership. The play provides a glimpse into Robinson’s life during the era of segregated locker rooms, whites-only hotels, and restaurants with only a back door for athletes of color to enter. Witness the struggles of a star player who was celebrated on the field but became a second-class citizen when he walked off the diamond.

Tickets are $20 for general admission and $10 for students in grades K-12.

Buy tickets

Classes

Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 8

Yoga in the Galleries
10-11 a.m.
Saturday, Jan. 10

Yoga in the Galleries (Chair)
10-11 a.m.
Saturday, Feb. 14

Chix with Stix
10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Second and fourth Tuesdays

The post Explore Piedmont Arts this holiday season appeared first on Martinsville Tourism.

To shine a light on some of the individuals who stand against injustice and advocate for peace, this project asked artists to create a series of digital stamps featuring portraits of these heroes, one for each sovereign nation. The result is a collection of 198 portraits of peace advocates created by more than 100 artists.

“Peace Post” is a project of Selman, a design firm founded by Martinsville native Johnny Selman.

Learn more

Legible Earth: The Fire Tapestries
On view through Jan. 10
Leah Raintree is an artist based in Richmond, Virginia, and Brooklyn, New York. Her artworks engage the interconnection between humanity, time, and the Earth.

This exhibit marks the 10th anniversary of the Valley Fire in Northern California, when Raintree’s sister and her family lost their home to wildfire. These intricate line drawings are interwoven with washes of wildfire char, creating intimate explorations that address the global impacts of wildfire on ecological and human communities.

Learn more

Depicting the Moment
Paintings by Donald Towns
On view through Jan. 10

Inspired Creations
Work by members of Lynwood Artists
On view through Jan. 10

These exhibits are sponsored by Jewell Drewery, Jane and John Franck, Gale and Will Gravely, Tracie Heavner and Jim Frith, Helen S. and Charles G. Patterson Jr. Charitable Foundation Trust, Lynwood Artists, Melody Margrave, Sovah Health, Stuart and Tom Webster, Phyllia and Mike Wenkstern and What’s Your Sign.

Holiday Happenings
Food Drive for Grace Network
Piedmont Arts is collecting donations of nonperishable food and hygiene products for the Grace Network food pantry.
Donations may be dropped off at Piedmont Arts through Dec. 13.

Suggested donations

Make spirits bright with handmade gifts
Spread some cheer with a unique gift from the Piedmont Arts gift shop. Discover a wonderland of handcrafted treasures from vibrant paintings and sparkling jewelry to stained glass, cozy textiles, and more, all created by regional artists.

Can’t decide what to buy? Pick up a gift certificate. Available in a variety of amounts, gift certificates can be used for event tickets, classes, gift shop purchases, and more.

Learn more

Art Garden Christmas Tree
Gravely-Lester Art Garden, 207 Starling Ave.
Each December, the Gravely-Lester Art Garden comes alive with a dazzling 30-foot Christmas tree that transforms the grounds into a festive landmark.

Created annually by artist Ian Hogg, this stunning installation incorporates more than 3,000 lights, making the tree a luminous work of art.

The tree is lit each night at sunset and will brighten the Art Garden through New Year’s Day.

Learn more

News
Piedmont Arts welcomes the holiday season with festive community celebrations

Around 150 visitors gathered in the Gravely-Lester Art Garden for the museum’s annual tree lighting on Dec. 4. Gale Buck, dressed as Santa Claus, entertained families with Christmas stories, while the Martinsville High School Jazz Band performed holiday classics. Members of the museum’s Teen Arts Council led a free children’s craft and hid handmade ornaments throughout the garden for guests to discover. The Piedmont Arts Guild also distributed free children’s books collected during a recent book drive.

The centerpiece of the evening — the Art Garden Christmas tree — stood out as a work of art in its own right. Created by artist Ian Hogg, the 30-foot structure features more than 3,000 lights and will illuminate the garden nightly at sunset through New Year’s Day.

The tree lighting was sponsored by Brightspeed, Carter Bank, Chip Wyatt of State Farm, and Press Glass.

The Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and Chorus, under the baton of Maestro David Stewart Wiley, returned to perform a mix of seasonal favorites at Piedmont Arts’ annual Holiday Pops Spectacular on Dec. 7 at Martinsville High School Auditorium.

Guest soloist LaTetra Lewis captivated the audience with her vocal range, while songwriter Randy Brooks amused concertgoers with a live rendition of his humorous hit, “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer.” Volunteers from Altrusa International of Martinsville-Henry County assisted with collecting food drive donations during the event.

The Holiday Pops Spectacular was sponsored by Brightspeed, with additional support from the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Upcoming Events
Foster Gallery Reception
4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 9, Piedmont Arts

Join Piedmont Arts and the Charity League of Martinsville and Henry County for a special event celebrating students with work on display in the Foster Gallery from 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 9, at Piedmont Arts. The exhibit features work by students attending the following schools:

• Bassett High School
• Carlisle Upper School
• Magna Vista High School
• Martinsville High School
This event is free and open to exhibiting students, their families, and friends.

Exhibits are curated in partnership with the Charity League of Martinsville and Henry County.

Learn more

Exhibit Opening Reception
5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23, Piedmont Arts

Join Piedmont Arts for an opening reception in honor of its new exhibits from 5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday, Jan. 23, at Piedmont Arts.

A gallery talk will be held at 6:15 p.m. Complimentary refreshments will be served.

Exhibits on view:
• American Watercolor Society 158th Traveling Exhibition
• Act II: Paintings by Gail Doyle Smith
• Works by King’s Grant Residents

This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP with the number and names of the attendees in your party by Wednesday, Jan. 21.

RSVP online

African American Read-In + Family Day
10 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 7, Piedmont Arts

The annual African American Read-In + Family Day will take place from 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 7, at Piedmont Arts. A craft for kids and snacks will be available. This event is free, and all ages are welcome.

Learn more

Sponsored by Brightspeed and Carter Bank.

Dancing for the Arts 2026
3 p.m., Saturday, March 14, MHS Auditorium

Dancing for the Arts, the fabulous fundraiser for Piedmont Arts, returns to the stage at 3 p.m., Saturday, March 14, at Martinsville High School Auditorium.

In this dazzling, high-energy dance competition, teams of local celebrities and community leaders compete for a cause — supporting the arts! Your votes support your favorite teams and the arts in Martinsville-Henry County.

Admission tickets are $30 for reserved seating, $20 for general admission, and $10 for students in grades K-12.

DFTA teams:
• Katie Adkins + Brandon Johnson
• Shan’Tyia Hairston + Maurice Breedlove
• Tiffanie Hairston + Brian Hairston
• Sarah Hodges + Kasey Lucas
• Elizabeth Huerta + Alfredo Huerta
• Shatera Robertson + Louis Norton
• Margie Price-Savedge + Christopher Janey
• Melissa White + Al Herndon

Tickets + Voting

Mike Wiley: A Game Apart
Thursday, March 26, Piedmont Arts

Actor and playwright Mike Wiley will perform “A Game Apart,” a one-person play about baseball legend Jackie Robinson, on Thursday, March 26, at Piedmont Arts. A reception will begin at 6:30 p.m., followed by the performance at 7 p.m. in the galleries.

“A Game Apart” offers a powerful lesson of courage through dedication, perseverance, and leadership. The play provides a glimpse into Robinson’s life during the era of segregated locker rooms, whites-only hotels, and restaurants with only a back door for athletes of color to enter. Witness the struggles of a star player who was celebrated on the field but became a second-class citizen when he walked off the diamond.

Tickets are $20 for general admission and $10 for students in grades K-12.

Buy tickets

Classes
Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Jan. 8

Yoga in the Galleries
10-11 a.m.
Saturday, Jan. 10

Yoga in the Galleries (Chair)
10-11 a.m.
Saturday, Feb. 14

Chix with Stix
10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Second and fourth Tuesdays

Community Partners
Smith River Singers Holiday Concert
7 p.m., Monday, Dec. 15, Galilean House

Join Smith River Singers for their annual holiday concert at 7 p.m., Monday, Dec. 15, at the Galilean House of Worship. Admission is free.

Visit Smith River Singers on Facebook for updates on this event.

The post Visit the galleries of Piedmont Arts this holiday season appeared first on Martinsville Tourism.

Art Talk with Donald Towns
7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, Piedmont Arts

Donald Towns will discuss his exhibit, Depicting the Moment, and his work at Disney, where he was involved in the making of “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin” and “The Little Mermaid.”

A reception will be held at 6:30 p.m. The talk will begin at 7 p.m. in the galleries.

This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP with the number and names of the attendees in your party by Tuesday, Nov. 18.

RSVP HERE!

Teen Arts Council Info Session
5:30-6:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, Piedmont Arts

Local teens in grades 9-12 are invited to learn more about the museum’s Teen Arts Council at an info session from 5:30-6:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, at Piedmont Arts.

This group of dedicated teen artists and art lovers meets monthly for classes, events and more.

For more information, contact Melody Margrave at mmargrave@piedmontarts.org.

Learn more

Holiday Events
Christmas Tree Lighting
4-6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 4, Art Garden

Piedmont Arts will kick off the holiday season with the annual lighting of the Art Garden Christmas tree from 4-6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 4, in the Gravely-Lester Art Garden.

Enjoy holiday music, a visit from Santa, themed crafts and a snack of cookies and hot chocolate. This event is free and open to the public.

Much like the sculptures in the Art Garden, the Christmas tree is a work of art. It is created each year by Ian Hogg using more than 3,000 lights. The tree will be lit at sunset and brighten the Art Garden through New Year’s Day.

Learn more

Roanoke Symphony Holiday Pops Spectacular
3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 7, MHS Auditorium

Join Piedmont Arts for its annual production of the Roanoke Symphony Holiday Pops Spectacular at 3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 7, at Martinsville High School Auditorium.

There’s no better way to lift your spirits than with the music of the season delivered in full sound and spectacle by the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. Maestro David Stewart Wiley conducts the Holiday Pops with all the magical elements guests have come to expect — high energy, familiar carols and lots of holiday warmth.

Guest soloist LaTetra Lewis will join the symphony for a heartwarming celebration of cherished holiday classics. Lewis is a mezzo-soprano hailed for her rich voice and magnetic stage presence. Randy Brooks, the writer of “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer,” will also join the symphony for a special performance of his hit song.

Tickets are $30 for reserved seating, $20 for general admission and $10 for students in grades K-12.

WIC Passport Program participants receive free general admission tickets to the Roanoke Symphony Holiday Pops Spectacular. To redeem this discount, just show your WIC card at the museum’s welcome desk or at the box office on the night of the event.

Buy tickets

Food Drive for Grace Network Food Pantry
Piedmont Arts is collecting donations of nonperishable food and hygiene products for the Grace Network food pantry. Donations may be dropped off at Piedmont Arts from Dec. 2-13.

Altrusa International of Martinsville-Henry County will collect donations in the lobby of Martinsville High School Auditorium during the Holiday Pops Spectacular from 3-5 p.m. on Dec. 7.

Suggested donations

GivingTuesday
Mark your calendar for Tuesday, Dec. 2.

GivingTuesday is a movement that unleashes the power of radical generosity. When you support Piedmont Arts on GivingTuesday — or any day — you help bring quality visual arts, performing arts and arts education programs to Martinsville-Henry County.

Four ways to participate:
1. Donate to the Grace Network food pantry.
2. Donate your money to Piedmont Arts.
3. Donate your time to Piedmont Arts.
4. Become an advocate for Piedmont Arts on social media.

Learn more + plan your gift

Exhibits

Peace Post
On view through Jan. 10, Piedmont Arts
The stories that permeate our newsfeeds have become increasingly dark. Abuse, discrimination, oppression, violence and war are global problems that all countries and people face. To shine a light on some of the individuals who stand against injustice and advocate for peace, this project asked artists to create a series of digital stamps featuring portraits of these heroes, one for each sovereign nation. The result is a collection of 198 portraits of peace advocates created by more than 100 artists.

Learn more

Legible Earth: The Fire Tapestries
On view through Jan. 10, Piedmont Arts
Leah Raintree’s work engages the interconnection between humanity, time and the Earth. This exhibit marks the 10th anniversary of the Valley Fire in Northern California, when Raintree’s sister and family lost their home to wildfire. Borrowing from the language of ancient tapestries that survive as storytellers, her intricate line drawings are interwoven with washes of wildfire char. These drawings address the global impacts of wildfire on ecological and human communities.

Learn more

Depicting the Moment
On view through Jan. 10, Piedmont Arts
Donald Towns is a painter, background animation illustrator and art director. He finds inspiration in a variety of subjects, such as nature, architecture and everyday objects. His experience in the motion picture industry has influenced his painting, giving his work the ethereal appearance of animated movie stills.

Learn more

Inspired Creations
On view through Jan. 10, Piedmont Arts
The Lynwood Artists Gallery features a selection of “inspired creations” by the group’s members.
Lynwood Artists is an organization for practicing artists in the Martinsville-Henry County area. Its members share a desire to stimulate understanding and enjoyment of fine art, while providing artists with opportunities to exhibit and develop their talents.

Learn more

Upcoming Events

Preschool in the Galleries
Preschool in the Galleries is a program for pre-K students designed to foster a love of the performing and visual arts at a young age. Performances take place at 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. and are free to students and schools.

• Wednesday, Nov. 19
• Tuesday, Dec. 9

Reservations are required to attend a performance. To make a reservation for your preschool class, email Programs Coordinator Jennifer Gravely at jgravely@piedmontarts.org.

Learn more

Foster Gallery Reception
4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 9, Piedmont Arts
Join Piedmont Arts and the Charity League of Martinsville & Henry County for a special event celebrating students with work on display in the Foster Gallery.

This exhibit features work by students attending the following schools:
• Bassett High School
• Carlisle Upper School
• Magna Vista High School
• Martinsville High School
This event is free and open to exhibiting students, their families and friends.

Dancing for the Arts 2026
3 p.m., Saturday, March 14, MHS Auditorium
Dancing for the Arts, the fabulous fundraiser for Piedmont Arts, returns to the stage at 3 p.m., Saturday, March 14, at Martinsville High School Auditorium.

In this dazzling, high-energy dance competition, teams of local celebrities and community leaders compete for a cause — supporting the arts! Your votes support your favorite teams and the arts in Martinsville-Henry County.
Admission tickets are $30 for reserved seating, $20 for general admission and $10 for students in grades K-12.

DFTA teams:
• Katie Adkins + Brandon Johnson
• Shan’Tyia Hairston + Maurice Breedlove
• Tiffanie Hairston + Brian Hairston
• Sarah Hodges + Kasey Lucas
• Elizabeth Huerta + Alfredo Huerta
• Shatera Robertson + Louis Norton
• Margie Price-Savedge + Christopher Janey
• Melissa White + Al Herndon

Tickets + Voting

Community Partners

Smith River Singers Holiday Concert
7 p.m., Monday, Dec. 15, Galilean House
Join Smith River Singers for their annual holiday concert at 7 p.m., Monday, Dec. 15, at the Galilean House of Worship. Admission is free.
Visit Smith River Singers on Facebook for updates on this event.

Classes

Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 4

Yoga in the Galleries
10-11 a.m.
Saturday, Jan. 10

Yoga in the Galleries (Chair)
10-11 a.m.
Saturday, Feb. 14

Chix with Stix
10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Second and fourth Tuesdays

The post Free art talk this Thursday at Piedmont Arts! appeared first on Martinsville Tourism.

Art Garden Christmas Tree Lighting

The Art Garden Christmas Tree Lighting will take place from 4-6 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4, in the Gravely-Lester Art Garden. Guests can enjoy holiday music, a visit from Santa, themed crafts and a snack of cookies and hot chocolate. This event is free and open to the public. It is sponsored by Brightspeed and Carter Bank.

Much like the sculptures in the Art Garden, the Christmas tree is a work of art. It is created each year by Ian Hogg using more than 3,000 lights. The tree will be lit at sunset on Dec. 4 and brighten the Art Garden through New Year’s Day. The tree is sponsored by Press Glass and Chip Wyatt of State Farm.

Holiday Pops Spectacular

Piedmont Arts will host its annual production of the Roanoke Symphony Holiday Pops Spectacular at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7, at Martinsville High School Auditorium.

There’s no better way to lift your spirits than with the music of the season delivered in full sound and spectacle by the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. Maestro David Stewart Wiley conducts the Holiday Pops with all the magical elements guests have come to expect — high energy, familiar carols and lots of holiday warmth.

Guest soloist LaTetra Lewis will join the symphony for a heartwarming celebration of cherished holiday classics. Lewis is a mezzo-soprano hailed for her rich voice and magnetic stage presence. She studied opera at the renowned Governor’s School for the Arts in Norfolk. She has performed roles including Orfeo in Gluck’s “Orfeo ed Euridice,” Madame Flora in Menotti’s “The Medium” and the Third Lady in Mozart’s “Die Zauberflöte.” She has been a member of the Virginia Opera chorus since 2008 and has performed in the recent productions “La Traviata” and “Madama Butterfly.”

Randy Brooks, the writer of “Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer,” will also join the symphony for a special performance of his hit song.

Tickets are $30 for reserved seating, $20 for general admission and $10 for students in grades K-12. Tickets can be purchased at Piedmont Arts and online at PiedmontArts.org.

This event is sponsored by Brightspeed. It is partially supported by funding from the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

WIC Passport Program

Piedmont Arts is a proud participant in the WIC Passport Program, which offers free or discounted tickets, classes and other experiences to WIC recipients across Virginia. Passport holders receive free general admission tickets to the Roanoke Symphony Holiday Pops Spectacular. To redeem this discount, show your WIC card at the welcome desk when entering the museum or at the box office on the night of the event. For more information about the Passport Program, visit PiedmontArts.org.

Food Drive for Grace Network Food Pantry

In the spirit of the holiday season, Piedmont Arts is collecting donations of nonperishable food and hygiene products for the Grace Network food pantry.

Donations may be dropped off at Piedmont Arts from Dec. 2-13 during regular business hours. Piedmont Arts is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Altrusa International of Martinsville-Henry County will collect donations in the lobby of Martinsville High School Auditorium during the Holiday Pops Spectacular from 3-5 p.m. on Dec. 7.

For more information on exhibits and events, visit PiedmontArts.org.

The post Piedmont Arts kicks off the holidays with community events in December appeared first on Martinsville Tourism.

Exhibit Opening Reception
5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24, Piedmont Arts
Join Piedmont Arts for an opening reception in honor of its new exhibits from 5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24, at Piedmont Arts. A gallery talk will be held at 6:15 p.m. Live music by Amy Stuart and Regula Daily. Complimentary refreshments will be served.

Exhibits on view:
• Peace Post
• Legible Earth: The Fire Tapestries | Leah Raintree
• Depicting the Moment: Paintings by Donald Towns
• Inspired Creations: Lynwood Artists

This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP with the number and names of the attendees in your party by Wednesday, Oct. 22.

RSVP online

Exhibits closing Saturday, Oct. 11

• What Memory Wears
• In a Different Light
• Eyes on the Wild

Learn more

News

Elliot Engel takes guests on a high-seas journey at Blackbeard talk
Dr. Elliot Engel gave a talk on the life of the infamous pirate Blackbeard to around 100 guests on Oct. 2 at Piedmont Arts.

The program sifted fact from fiction to reveal the real life of the 18th-century pirate who has fascinated the world for centuries. Engel detailed how Edward Teach, a quiet and educated man, transformed himself into the infamous pirate and became known as the “Scourge of the High Seas.” He pointed out that even though Blackbeard was one of the most feared pirates of his day, he never killed or tortured his victims. His fearsome reputation was heavily embellished through a clever public relations strategy and Blackbeard’s own penchant for theatrics and costumes.

This marked Engel’s 18th lecture at Piedmont Arts. He has spoken on subjects as varied as Robert Frost, Edgar Allan Poe, the history of the English language and the Brontës. He lives in Raleigh, North Carolina, where he has taught at NC State University, the University of North Carolina and Duke University. He has written 10 books and numerous articles that have appeared in newspapers and national magazines. He has lectured throughout the United States and on all the continents, including Antarctica. His lecture series on Charles Dickens aired on PBS stations nationwide, and he was inducted into the Royal Society of Arts in England in 2009 for his academic work and service in promoting Dickens’ work.

Upcoming Events
Foster Gallery Reception
4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7, Piedmont Arts

Students attending Albert Harris and Patrick Henry elementary schools will have work on display in the Foster Gallery from Sep. 26-Oct. 31.

A free reception for the students and their families will be held from 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7, at Piedmont Arts.

Learn more

Educator Appreciation Night
4-6 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 6, Piedmont Arts

Local educators are invited to a special Educator Appreciation Night from 4-6 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 6, at Piedmont Arts. Enjoy light refreshments in celebration of your hard work and dedication.

This event is free and open to all education professionals in Martinsville-Henry County.

Learn more

Art Talk with Donald Towns
7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, Piedmont Arts

Donald Towns will discuss his exhibit, Depicting the Moment, and his work at Disney, where he was involved in the making of “Beauty and the Beast,” “Aladdin” and “The Little Mermaid.”

A reception will be held at 6:30 p.m. The talk will begin at 7 p.m. in the galleries.
This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP with the number and names of the attendees in your party by Tuesday, Nov. 18.

Learn more

Foster Gallery Reception
4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 11, Piedmont Arts

Students attending Carver, Meadow View and Mt. Olivet elementary schools will have work on display in the Foster Gallery from Nov. 5-Dec. 5.

A free reception for the students and their families will be held from 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 11, at Piedmont Arts.

Learn more

Christmas Tree Lighting
4-6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 4, Art Garden

Piedmont Arts will kick off the holiday season with the annual lighting of the Art Garden Christmas tree. Enjoy holiday music, a visit from Santa, snacks and crafts.

This event is free and open to the public.

Learn more

Roanoke Symphony Holiday Pops Spectacular
3 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 7, MHS Auditorium

There’s no better way to lift your spirits than with the music of the season delivered in full sound and spectacle by the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. David Stewart Wiley conducts the Holiday Pops with all the magical elements you have come to expect — high energy, familiar carols and lots of holiday warmth.

Altrusa will collect donations of nonperishable food items for the Grace Network food pantry. Donations may be dropped off in the lobby during the symphony’s performance.

Tickets are $30 for reserved seating, $20 for general admission and $10 for students in grades K-12.
WIC Passport Program participants receive free general admission tickets to the Roanoke Symphony Holiday Pops Spectacular. To redeem this discount, just show your WIC card at the museum’s welcome desk or at the box office on the night of the event.

Buy tickets

Classes
Needle Felting
2:30-4:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 10

Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 6

Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 4

Chix with Stix
10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Second and fourth Tuesdays

The post Don’t miss out – Exhibits closing at Piedmont Arts Oct. 11 appeared first on Martinsville Tourism.

Many know that Blackbeard has one of the most fearsome reputations of any pirate in history. What is not always known is the astonishing story of how Edward Teach, a quiet and educated man, transformed himself into this infamous pirate and became known as the “Scourge of the High Seas.” Engel will provide the background, context and hair-raising details of Teach’s transformation into Blackbeard.

Guests are invited to attend a dinner with Dr. Engel at 5:45 p.m., followed by the lecture. Reservations for the dinner must be made in advance. Tickets to the dinner and lecture are $50. The lecture will begin at 7 p.m. in the galleries and is open to the public. Tickets to the lecture alone are $25.

Buy tickets

News

It’s the final day to submit your Public Input Survey
Survey open through Tuesday, Sept. 30
Community members are invited to complete a survey about their experiences at Piedmont Arts and how the museum can shape these experiences in the future.

Take the survey

Savory September brings the Wild West to Piedmont Arts
Around 150 guests kicked up their boot heels at Savory September: Wild, Wild West on Sept. 26. The fundraiser brought in more than $17,000 in support of Piedmont Arts programs in Martinsville-Henry County.
Congratulations to Michael Howlett, the winner of the 50/50 raffle.

Thanks to all the chefs, volunteers, sponsors and guests who made this event a huge success.

Savory September chefs:
• Anne Compson, Mary Compson, Brad Johnson and Janet Lewis
• Be Wiched Diner
• Blanche and Tom Mahoney, Esther and Buz Schilbe and Barb and Guy Stanley
• Holly Burton and Tyler Lacy
• Jennifer and Marty Ingram, Ouss Sahhar and Kerry Smith
• Lori and Burr Fox and Julia and Blake Shumate
• Page Beeler, Cindy Edgerton and Beth Sibbick
• Rachel and Shannon Cox and Donna and Jimmy McGarry
• Susan Critz, Judy Dashoff and Marty Gardner
• TAD Tavern

Special thanks to Matt Boswell, Will Gravely, James Luedeman, Robin Robertson, Ashley Ullstein, Susan Warren and Tackfully Teamed Riding Academy.

Exhibits

What Memory Wears: Works by Barbara Hardy and Bob Ray
On view through Oct. 11, Piedmont Arts
Barbara Hardy and Bob Ray have been living and working together for more than 25 years. They are inspired by found objects, patterns and designs discovered in nature. Through their intimate, creative and artistic bond, they have created a diverse body of work full of rich textures and layered patterns.

Learn more

In a Different Light: Photographs by Russell Hart
On view through Oct. 11, Piedmont Arts
Hart uses photography to explore the ways in which humans occupy and alter their environments and the landscape, but his photographs aren’t meant to be documentary or even realistic. “My work is based on observation,” Hart explains. “It doesn’t express a world view or share an intimate experience in the manner of so much contemporary art. It’s intended to show familiar things in a new way.”

Learn more

Eyes on the Wild: Photography by Artemisia Blankenship
On view through Oct. 11, Piedmont Arts
Blankenship became passionate about photography while pursuing a career in fashion. Wildlife became one of her favorite subjects. She greatly enjoys photographing the animals she sees while taking long walks and views the images with a race of excitement, becoming truly lost in time discovering the magical beauty of every different species. She feels that the most meaningful way to capture the divine spirit and essence of wildlife and honor its existence on our planet is by sharing her images with others. Her favorite places to shoot are in the Florida Everglades, the coastal regions of North and South Carolina and the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

Learn more

Upcoming Events

Foster Gallery Reception
4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7, Piedmont Arts
Students attending Albert Harris and Patrick Henry elementary schools will have work on display in the Foster Gallery from Sep. 26-Oct. 31.
A free reception for the students and their families will be held from 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7, at Piedmont Arts.

Learn more

Exhibit Opening Reception
5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24, Piedmont Arts
Join Piedmont Arts for an opening reception in honor of its new exhibits. A gallery talk will be held at 6:15 p.m. Complimentary refreshments will be served.
Exhibits on view:
• Peace Post
• Legible Earth: Leah Raintree
• Depicting the Moment: Donald Towns
• Inspired Creations: Lynwood Artists
This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP with the number and names of the attendees in your party by Wednesday, Oct. 22.

RSVP online

Educator Appreciation Night
4-6 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 6, Piedmont Arts
Local educators are invited to a special Educator Appreciation Night from 4-6 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 6, at Piedmont Arts. Enjoy light refreshments in celebration of your hard work and dedication.
This event is free and open to all education professionals in Martinsville-Henry County.

Learn more

Classes

Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 2

Needle Felting
2:30-4:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 10

Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 6

Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 4

Chix with Stix
10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Second and fourth Tuesdays

The post Avast, ye mateys! Elliot Engel talks Blackbeard on Thursday appeared first on Martinsville Tourism.

Taking place in the heart of Uptown Martinsville, this lively street festival is a beloved tradition that brings the community together each fall. Whether you’re a longtime local or a first-time visitor, Oktoberfest 2025 is shaping up to be one of the best yet!

Shop, Savor & Celebrate

• Unique Vendors: Browse handcrafted art, jewelry, holiday décor, and one-of-a-kind household treasures.
• Delicious Food: Enjoy festival favorites and tasty local eats.
• Beer Garden: Sip on refreshing brews while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
• Family Fun: Kids can enjoy dedicated activities and games, making this a day the whole family will love.
• Live Music: Dance along to great tunes that keep the energy high all day long!

Event Details

Uptown Martinsville
Free Admission
Entertainment, shopping, food, and fun for the entire family!

Don’t miss Martinsville’s signature fall event!!

The post Celebrate Fall at the 44th Annual Uptown Martinsville Oktoberfest! appeared first on Martinsville Tourism.

Savory September: Wild, Wild West
6:30 p.m., Friday, Sept. 26, Piedmont Arts

Get ready to boot scootin’ boogie at this Wild West-themed fundraiser for Piedmont Arts.

Kick up your boot heels to live country and western music by Matt Boswell, test your grit with Wild West-themed games and a 50/50 raffle, and sample themed dishes and custom cocktails prepared by local chefs, including:

• Anne Compson, Mary Compson, Brad Johnson and Janet Lewis
• Blanche and Tom Mahoney, Ester and Buz Schilbe and Barb and Guy Stanley
• Holly Burton and Tyler Lacy
• Kat and Dave Kitzmiller of Be Wiched
• Lori and Burr Fox and Julia and Blake Shumate
• Jennifer and Marty Ingram, Ouss Sahhar and Kerry Smith
• Page Beeler, Cindy Edgerton and Beth Sibbick
• Rachel and Shannon Cox and Donna and Jimmy McGarry
• Susan Critz, Judy Dashoff and Marty Gardner
• TAD Tavern

Suggested attire for the event is “Western flair,” so, dust off your boots, throw on some fringe and saddle up in your favorite denim, bandanas and cowboy hats. It’s time to boogie!

Admission tickets are $50 per person and include food and drinks. Raffle tickets are $20 each or $100 for six.

Buy tickets

Exhibits

What Memory Wears: Works by Barbara Hardy and Bob Ray
On view through Oct. 11, Piedmont Arts

Barbara Hardy and Bob Ray have been living and working together for more than 25 years. They are inspired by found objects, patterns and designs discovered in nature. Through their intimate, creative and artistic bond, they have created a diverse body of work full of rich textures and layered patterns.

Learn more

In a Different Light: Photographs by Russell Hart
On view through Oct. 11, Piedmont Arts

Hart uses photography to explore the ways in which humans occupy and alter their environments and the landscape, but his photographs aren’t meant to be documentary or even realistic. “My work is based on observation,” Hart explains. “It doesn’t express a world view or share an intimate experience in the manner of so much contemporary art. It’s intended to show familiar things in a new way.”

Learn more

Eyes on the Wild: Photography by Artemisia Blankenship
On view through Oct. 11, Piedmont Arts

Blankenship became passionate about photography while pursuing a career in fashion. Wildlife became one of her favorite subjects. She greatly enjoys photographing the animals she sees while taking long walks and views the images with a race of excitement, becoming truly lost in time discovering the magical beauty of every different species. She feels that the most meaningful way to capture the divine spirit and essence of wildlife and honor its existence on our planet is by sharing her images with others. Her favorite places to shoot are in the Florida Everglades, the coastal regions of North and South Carolina and the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

Learn more

Upcoming Events

Strategic Plan Public Input Survey
Submit your survey by Tuesday, Sept. 30.

Community members are invited to complete a survey about their experiences at Piedmont Arts and how the museum can shape these experiences in the future. The survey is available online through Sept. 30.

Learn more

Dr. Elliot Engel: Blackbeard! Pirate Enemy Number One
5:45 p.m. dinner, 7 p.m. lecture, Thursday, Oct. 2, Piedmont Arts

Dr. Elliot Engel returns to Piedmont Arts with the lecture, “Blackbeard! Pirate Enemy Number One,” on Thursday, Oct. 2.

Many know that Blackbeard has one of the most fearsome reputations of any pirate in history. What is not always known is the astonishing story of how Edward Teach, a quiet and educated man, transformed himself into this infamous pirate and became known as the “Scourge of the High Seas.” Engel will provide the background, context and hair-raising details of Teach’s transformation into Blackbeard.

Guests are invited to attend a dinner with Dr. Engel at 5:45 p.m., followed by the lecture. Reservations for the dinner must be made in advance. Tickets to the dinner and lecture are $50. The lecture will begin at 7 p.m. in the galleries and is open to the public. Tickets to the lecture alone are $25.

Learn more

Foster Gallery Reception
4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7, Piedmont Arts

Students attending Albert Harris and Patrick Henry elementary schools will have work on display in the Foster Gallery from Sep. 26-Oct. 31.
A free reception for the students and their families will be held from 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7, at Piedmont Arts.

Learn more

Exhibit Opening Reception
5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 24, Piedmont Arts
Join Piedmont Arts for an opening reception in honor of its new exhibits. A gallery talk will be held at 6:15 p.m. Complimentary refreshments will be served.

Exhibits on view:

• Peace Post
• Legible Earth: Leah Raintree
• Depicting the Moment: Donald Towns
• Inspired Creations: Lynwood Artists

This event is free and open to the public. Please RSVP with the number and names of the attendees in your party by Wednesday, Oct. 22.

RSVP online

Classes

Needle Felting
2:30-4:30 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 19

Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Oct. 2

Needle Felting
2:30-4:30 p.m.
Friday, Oct. 10

Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Nov. 6

Bob Ross Workshop
9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 4

Chix with Stix
10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Second and fourth Tuesdays

The post It’s your lucky day – Savory September is one week away! appeared first on Martinsville Tourism.

A free reception for the students and their families will be held from 4-6 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 7, at Piedmont Arts.

The Foster Gallery features work by young artists. It is an important part of the museum’s community programming. Exhibits in the gallery are curated in partnership with the Charity League of Martinsville and Henry County. A new exhibit is installed every six to eight weeks to allow work by students from all 19 schools in Martinsville-Henry County to be displayed during the year. The Foster Gallery is named in memory of Elnora B. Foster.

For a complete schedule of exhibits in the Foster Gallery, visit PiedmontArts.org.

The post New student artwork on view Sept. 26-Oct. 31 at Piedmont Arts appeared first on Martinsville Tourism.

With funding from the Levitt Foundation—a national social impact funder at the intersection of music, public space, and community building that supports the largest free outdoor concert series in America—Uptown Partnership hopes to qualify as a finalist to receive a multi-year Levitt Music Series Grant. The public is urged to support Martinsville’s proposal by participating in the public voting process, which takes place September 5–15, 2025, at levitt.org/vote or directly at Uptown Partnership’s proposal page: https://vote.levitt.org/locations/uptown-partnership/.

Levitt Music Series Grants are an exciting, multi-year matching grant program created by the Levitt Foundation to bring the joy of free outdoor concerts to towns and cities across the country. For the 2026–2028 grant cycle, the Levitt Foundation will award U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits up to $120,000 over three years (up to $40,000 per year) to produce their own Levitt Music Series: 7–10 free outdoor concerts annually, featuring diverse music genres and professional musicians, activating an underused public space, and creating a vibrant, inclusive community destination for people of all ages and backgrounds.

Uptown Partnership submitted Martinsville’s proposal to present the free music series in Martinsville’s Uptown District. The proposal is now posted on the Levitt Foundation website, where the public can vote and learn more about communities across the country in the running. Each individual may submit one vote for up to five proposals of their choosing.

There are two easy ways to vote:

• Online atorg/vote or on Uptown Partnership’s page: https://vote.levitt.org/locations/uptown-partnership/
• Via text to877-409-5525 using Martinsville’s unique keyword: MVILLE

Reflecting the Levitt Foundation’s mission that all projects be community-driven, the number of online and text votes received for Uptown Partnership will be a key factor in the final grant decision, announced November 18, 2025.

“We’re honored to represent Martinsville on this national stage and to bring our community together through the power of free, live music,” said Spencer Koger, Executive Director of Uptown Partnership. “This opportunity perfectly aligns with our mission as a Main Street organization to revitalize Uptown Martinsville as a thriving destination that connects people, supports businesses, and celebrates our city’s culture and history.”

About Uptown Partnership
Uptown Partnership is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and the designated Main Street organization for Martinsville, VA. As part of the Virginia Main Street program, Uptown Partnership leads revitalization efforts through the Four Points of Main Street America: Economic Vitality, Design, Promotion, and Organization. The organization partners with residents, businesses, and community leaders to remove blight, attract entrepreneurs, beautify Uptown, and create a vibrant, welcoming downtown district that fosters community pride and economic opportunity.

About the Levitt Foundation
The Levitt Foundation is a private family foundation that exists to strengthen the social fabric of America. The Foundation supports changemakers and nonprofits across the country to activate underused public spaces through free outdoor concerts, creating welcoming, joyful, and inclusive destinations where the power of free, live music brings people together, fosters belonging and social connections, creates economic opportunity, and invigorates community life. In 2025, Levitt Foundation grantees are presenting 650+ free concerts in more than 50 towns and cities across the country, with a total audience of nearly one million people. Learn more at www.levitt.org.

The post Uptown Partnership Advances to Public Voting Phase for Up to $120K Multi-Year Grant for a Free, Outdoor Music Series in Martinsville appeared first on Martinsville Tourism.