The Arts Center in Orange — Local services in Orange

I’ve interacted with the Arts Center off and on for several years now, both as a student and as a volunteer, and my experience has definitely been a bit of a mixed bag. Pros: The majority of classes are decent, some are very good, and they have generally been affordable. Cons: The atmosphere can be unwelcoming and somewhat discriminatory despite being a 501(c)3 nonprofit. Despite giving countless hours of volunteer time, along with both monetary and in-kind donations, I’ve never really felt safe or supported to be “myself” as a queer female artist, and there’s a sense that the board just kind of “tolerates” the regular folks who keep the center running smoothly on a daily basis rather than welcoming them or seeking their input. I will likely continue to utilize the arts center for classes since they’re more or less the only affordable local option, but those who come from diverse backgrounds should manage their expectations and possibly look elsewhere if an organization’s values are...

A stalwart non-profit that has held fast to its mission statement of "art for all" in the rural community of Orange, VA for over 25 years. It is truly a testament to their dedication to bettering the community that they have had such a long-lasting impact on revitalizing Main Street with creativity, creating community engagement, providing a safe space for freedom of expression, and encouraging learning through diverse perspectives. The resumes of the high-quality artists that The Arts Center of Orange attracts to such a rural town show the level of professionalism that Anna Pillow has brought to the organization in her recent tenure as Executive Director. I look forward to all the art, cultural enrichment, and community-building programming that this organization will continue to...

This 25 year old Arts non-profit organization is a major asset in Orange and local region. Serving children, the youth, art professionals, hobbyists and those most in need such as centers for the disabled, elderly and more.

This place is a true gem as it has and continues to enrichen the lives of countless local residents by supporting the regions local arts and artists, while also sharing the stories, histories and experiences of artists from far and beyond through gallery exhibitions and local events/workshops.

The arts are vital to any community, and the healthiest communities work together to nurture the spread, not stifle, all forms, expressions and methods of art. A treasure and a go-to in...