ARTworks Vass — Attraction in Vass

UPDATED for October 2022: ARTworks Vass has kicked it into high gear this year with a major gallery expansion (still at their original location but taking over the shop space next door). This beautiful takeover of a former bridal / event space means that the gallery benefits from a gorgeous dropped ceiling, chandeliers, brick walls, and the implementation of a new hanging system for two dimensional artwork. The vast central area is perfect for new display shelves of ceramics and pottery, plus a dedicated space for the owner's handcrafted jewelry. Also included in the move is a stunning apothecary built-in that is now full of handmade soaps and fragrance items. Not complete without a piano - they have a piano! Tucked in a corner and surrounded by artwork, stop by and tickle the ivories while browsing paintings around you.

This new space offers ARTworks Vass the opportunity for curated installations and exhibitions, along with their existing series of art workshops - now consuming most of the original space.

The gallery and workshop spaces feel open, inviting, and there is a LOT to see. The time and effort to expand the gallery was well worth it.

ORIGINAL REVIEW: For being such a small town, Vass has a BIG arts presence with the ARTworks Vass building - a collective of artists who show their work in rotating displays, but also a place for workshops and educational opportunities for the whole family.

Our first visit to ARTworks Vass was inspired by seeing some of their artists participating in a local fundraising event. I wanted to check it out so we drove down (quick drive from Wake or Lee county) to see what was up. The building is FULL of artwork in many varieties, from decorative art to fine art to folk art to jewelry to yard art.

You can explore this gallery and store for quite a while because shelves are packed with local ceramics, artwork in all mediums, workshop areas, and some VERY friendly staff and volunteers who were eager to show us around and tell us the history of the center.

I was impressed with the diversity of work which ranged from traditional landscapes to funk art to encaustic and acrylic pours to handcrafts. Whether you're looking for pieces that are outdoor safe or for those that below under gallery lighting you will find it there.

Ceramics options are also abundant which is typical of the sandhill region of NC. We picked up some pitchers from a local ceramicist and a piece of fine art by a local painter. It's a spot we will definitely return to and have already been looking over their workshop schedule for classes that we might want to attend.

If you're looking for a place that offers both educational opportunity and eye candy - stop by to see ARTworks Vass in the tiny little...

LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this place! I've been going regularly with my son for classes over the last two years. There is an awesome collection of surprisingly affordable artwork (I should say vast collection to hit most tastes) - I love buying gifts here. Additionally - the classes! My son loves all forms of art and especially classes with Mrs. Jean and Ms. Barb - these two teach adult classes that allow younger guests to join in with their parents. Both of these ladies are exceptional at making your kids feel worthy, heard, and encouraged. Remember to wear your old clothes for any pottery or painting classes! Except for needle felting, both my son and I have come home very dirty and twice regretted our forgetfulness at changing out or work/school clothes and into...

I am disgusted with the attitude I experienced here yesterday. I am a well-kept person, groomed, hygienic, and compassionate towards (almost) all. When I was judged by my clothes and appearance, I was shocked and dismayed. What the woman who worked there didn't know is that I am a single dad of 7 kids working 60 hours a week to make ends meet. If it means I have to wear clothes that are less than desirable for my kids to have a good Christmas, I'll wear holes and permanent stains proudly. I truly hope she finds kindness in her heart and is more open-minded...