Foot-tapping tunes, out-of-this-world artisans, and events full of culture and heart—the arts scene in Randolph County is thriving.
ART
In downtown Elkins, Mycelium is a must-stop for the imaginative. Find art supplies as well as classes, member gatherings, an art museum, and so much more. Just down the street, wander through Artists at Work, a cooperative art gallery showcasing the work of more than 20 regional artists in a variety of mediums. Bring the family to Ceramics with Class to unwind and create as you paint your own pottery. The Art Center welcomes you to participate in art classes and to explore the exhibits.
MUSIC
Randolph County has several venues hosting musical performances, shows, and more throughout the year. Catch a show at the Old Brick Playhouse or enjoy a one-of-a-kind dinner and show at the Gandy Dancer Theatre. When it comes to preserving the arts and culture of the Appalachian region, the Augusta Heritage Center in Elkins is putting in the work with camps, classes, and workshops focused on a variety of musical styles.
CULTURE
The history of Randolph County is a long and proud one, found around every corner. The Appalachian Forest Discovery Center grants visitors insight into the Appalachian forests’ impact on the region. In honor of Helvetia’s Swiss heritage, stop by the year-round Helvetia Mask Museum and see the works of art worn during the yearly Fasnacht celebration. See state and regional history like never before at the West Virginia Railroad Museum.
Augusta Heritage Summer Programming
Creatives from all around the world come to the Augusta Heritage Center at Davis & Elkins College to connect with one another and share the experience of exploring new cultures, learning new skills, and finding new passions.
Events, classes, and activities are available throughout the year, but the Summer Heritage Workshops in July may be exactly what you need. From Cajun & Creole to old-time tunes, folk art, crafts, and so much more, this monthlong opportunity combines good times with good lessons. Learn to play the fiddle, try your hand at traditional broom-making, discover and refine your vocal range, learn a new dance style, and connect with others through the inherent instinct to create.
The Augusta Heritage Center welcomes visitors from all walks of life to experience the arts and culture of various communities, and registration for the Summer Heritage Workshops is now open. Visit augustaartsandculture.org to learn more.
Art for All
Public art can be found all across Elkins—colorful storefronts, stunning murals, and community installations are everywhere!
Community Quilt
Led by Nevada Tribble, a group of local artists came together with their community to create a beautiful piece of art made from, well, art. Community members were invited to paint the small triangles that were then used to create the quilt pattern that lives on the side of the Dann Building in downtown Elkins.
Banking on Beauty
Stopping by the bank just got a whole lot more interesting! A ground-to-roof mural on the side of Mountain Valley Bank highlights some of the Monongalia National Forest’s signature flora and fauna, backlit by the glow of an Appalachian horizon. Painted by West Virginia artist Heather Johnson, this mural is a breath of fresh mountain air in the bustle of downtown life.
Mary’s Lane
Taking a stroll down Third Street in Elkins may take longer than you think—a mural there demands your attention. Found on the corner of Third Street and Mary’s Lane, the affectionately named “graffiti wall” is a stretch of vibrant and diverse public art. The longer you look, the more you’ll discover!
For more information, visit elkinsrandolphwv.com.
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