Bower Center for the Arts is a hub for artistic and creative activities. Whether you are interested in viewing artwork in the gallery, attending events and concerts, or just taking a class that helps you explore your creative side, we have a little bit of everything for everyone.  

Many of you have been watching our deck emerge before your eyes. This newly completed 440-square-foot deck, built by a dedicated team of volunteers, offers a welcoming space for creativity, connection, and reflection. From art classes and summer camps to casual meetups and community events, this outdoor area will serve as a vibrant extension of our mission.

This ambitious project was spearheaded by board member, Des Black, and was made possible through hours of volunteer construction by the following individuals: 

Des Black, Rohan Black, Terry Chalker, Gary Cowden, John Boggess, Virginia Dickens, Griffin Farley, Liam Farley, Matthew Farley, Brenda Gay Simmons, John Griffith, Frank Jack, Thomas Kilian, Dennis Mryglot, Nelson Schacht, Peter Simmons, Ben Witt, and a handful of Good Samaritan passersby looking to help.  

Thank you so much for your contribution!

John Boggess (L), Lucille Hoback Boggess (C), Ann Boggess (R)

Named in honor of Lucille Hoback Boggess, a respected Bedford County leader and trailblazer, this space celebrates her legacy of service and advocacy. Thanks to her family’s generous sponsorship, her name now graces a place dedicated to learning, art, and community.

Join us Saturday, June 28 at 11 AM for an offical ribbon cutting and reception to celebrate, explore the space, and hear from those who brought the vision to life.

Virginia Hollow Returns to the Bower Center Stage! Join us for an evening of heartfelt music and lively storytelling with Virginia Hollow, a Floyd, VA-based trio blending Americana, Country, Folk, Bluegrass, and Rock. Known for their original songs, rich harmonies, and engaging stage banter, Carrie Hinkley, Sue Winchester, and Brad Collier create a warm, memorable experience that connects deeply with audiences. Don’t miss their return to the Bower Center stage! 

Mark your calender, and get ready to spice things up at Bower After Hours: Salsa Night on August 9 from 6-8pm!

Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a total beginner, Lynchburg Salsa will lead a fun, easy lesson to get you moving. Enjoy great music, lively vibes, and a cash bar as we transform the Bower into a Latin dance floor. This is perfect for date night, a friends' outing, or making new connections. Come dance, sip, and celebrate summer with us!

Head to Bower Center for the Arts on August 9 from 12:00 - 2:00pm for an afternoon of family fun with our Free Family Art Day: Ready, Set, School!

Create your own decoupage memory box to store special mementos from the upcoming school year and enjoy a hands-on workshop on building healthy snacks to keep you energized all year long. Registration is not required, but preferred for planning purposes. 

Drawing From Scratch: Foundational Drawing

**REGISTRATION CLOSES FRIDAY**

• June 8-June 29
• Sundays; 2-4pm
• Instructor: K. Rogerson

Politics, Revolution, & Stoneware: Talk and Demonstration with Thomas Kilian

• One Day Demonstration: Saturday, June 21
• 3:30-5:00pm
• Presenter: Thomas Kilian

Felted Gnome

• One Day Workshop: Wednesday, June 25
• 5-7pm
• Instructor: Belle Thomas

Felted Highland Cow Brooch

• One Day Workshop: Wednesday, July 9
• 5-7pm
• Instructor: Belle Thomas

The Clay Craft Intensive: Form, Function, and Finish

• Week Long Intensive: July 14-18
• 6-8pm
• Instructor: Thomas Kilian

Floral (Quilting) Improv Workshop

• One Day Workshop: Saturday, August 23
• 9am-4pm
• Instructor: Ellen Lindner

Just 8 more days to take in these breath-taking dual exhibits.  In the Braaten Gallery, we are hosting the solo show, Inside / Out by Lynchburg artist, Kaye Lipscomb.  In the Terrace Gallery, we have a collection of works by artists by our Bower Family of instructors, studio artists, board members, and committe members titled, Limited Edition.

The reception for both exhibits will be on June 13th at 5pm.  That evening, we will also formally introduce our 2025 Suzie Viemeister Emerging Artist in Residence, Andrea Wise.  This event is open to the public and free of charge.

The highly anticipated 4th Biennial Fiber Arts National Juried Exhibit opens on June 24th.  Forty-two different fiber arts works will be featured in this stunning exhibit juried and judged by artist, curator, and lecturer, Sarah Bolduc.

The reception for this exhibit will be July 18 at 5:00pm, with the awards presentation beginning at 6:00pm.  It is free and open to the public.

We are now accepting submissions for our 13th Annual National Juried Exhibit that will be featured in our galleries October 9 - November 15th. Early Bird deadline closes July 12, and the final deadline is August 9.