BCAA & The BEAR
Events
In partnership with the new Bath County Quilter’s Guild, The BEAR is excited to present our new exhibition, “Quilts of Bath County.” Beginning in mid February, visitors can appreciate the dexterity and skill of our local quilters through their beautiful creations. The official exhibit reception will take place Saturday, February 21st from 4-6pm. Stay tuned for upcoming quilting workshops and presentations.
Current Exhibit
•
Current Exhibit •
Speaker Series | “Textile Treasures from Southern Appalachia” with Kathleen Curtis Wilson
Join Textile Historian Kathleen Curtis Wilson to explore the textures and patterns of Southern Appalachia.
$10 per person (includes light refreshments)
Workshop | Ceramic Ornament Painting
Paint your own ceramic holiday ornament! Charlottesville potter Ruby Shrestha will lead students through basic glaze painting techniques on her hand-crafted ornaments. Tuition includes all materials and two ornaments.
$30 per person (includes all materials)
Workshop | Beginning Fused Glass Nightlight Class with Janis Peery
Add a warm, artistic glow to your home or create the perfect handmade holiday gift! In this beginner-friendly class, you’ll design and assemble a stunning fused glass nightlight using colorful glass frit and pieces of glass. No prior experience is necessary-just bring your creativity!
$55 per person (includes all materials) | Seating limited to 7 | Preregistration required
Speaker Series | “Bach, Banjos and the Hero’s Journey” with John Bullard
Discover the unlikely harmony of Bach and banjo. Join John Bullard for an inspiring solo program that blends classical music, Bluegrass, and storytelling through the lens of the hero’s journey.
$10 per person (includes light refreshments)
Speaker Series | “An Evening with Britain’s Royal Artist in Residence” with Jeremy Houghton
Discover the untold stories behind Windsor Castle, Wimbledon, the London Olympics, and more as acclaimed painter Jeremy Houghton shares his journey of capturing extraordinary places and rare subjects through art.
$10 per person (includes light refreshments)
Workshop | Sip n’ Paint - "Introduction to Watercolor" with Abigail Dufour
Local artist Abigail Dufour will instruct in foundational watercolor techniques in a relaxing and fun environment. No prior experience necessary.
$45 per person (includes all materials, light snacks, and 1st glass of wine)
Workshop | “Cooking With Lavender” with Teece Nowell & Moseymore Farm
Join us at The BEAR for a delectable introduction to cooking with this beloved purple flower.
$45 per person (includes all materials)
Speaker Series | “Viva la Vida – The Art of Frida Kahlo” with Elliott H. King
The BCAA Speaker Series begins with a journey into the life and art of Frida Kahlo. Led by Elliott H. King, Professor of Art History at Washington & Lee University, this talk brings fresh perspective to one of the most iconic artists of the 20th century.
Want all our events in one place? Subscribe to The BEAR calendar and stay connected.
Art doesn't have to be lonely! Bring your own supplies and projects and create with others.
FREE
Open Studio will return — upcoming dates to be shared soon.
OPEN STUDIO TIME
Regular Programming
At The BEAR, we keep things simple: regular programs that bring people together to make, move, and enjoy.
There’s always something happening here. Take a look at what we offer and jump in whenever it works for you.
FAMILY HOUR | Story and Craft Time
Join us every Saturday at 10:00 AM for free story time and crafts. Each week features a new story and hands-on activity for families to enjoy together.
FREE
WINTER YOGA AT THE BEAR
An all-levels class focused on general body wellness.
Strengthen and stretch in a breath-based flow. Beginners welcome!
$15 / 1 Class · $60 / 5 Classes
Thursdays 6-7pm | Sundays 9-10am
BEAR COUNTRY STORE
Every second Saturday of the month
11AM–5PM
The BEAR Country Store is a community favorite! Each month features different local vendors, crafts, family-friendly activities, Pickin' at The BEAR (3–5PM), story time, board games, and plenty of fun for all ages.
Stop in, shop small, and spend the day with us.
FREE ENTRY
Do you make original art, crafts, or handmade goods?
We’d love to have you join us for our monthly BEAR Country Store at The BEAR!
It’s a wonderful opportunity to share your work, connect with the community, and be part of a fun, welcoming day. We’d love to hear from you!
If you're having trouble signing up for a ticket, we may be sold out.
Please fill out this form to be added to our waitlist.
What’s Happening in Bath County
This shared community calendar, provided by Visit Bath, highlights events happening throughout Bath County.
Explore what’s coming up across the region—including arts, culture, and events we’re proud to be part of.
Celebrating Art in Our Community
Bath County is alive with creativity, and BCAA is proud to support and promote the many arts events happening throughout our community. Whether at fairs, immersive experiences, or gallery events, art is happening for everyone to enjoy.
Explore the vibrant arts scene we’re helping bring to life!
-
Sixth Annual CRPA Artist Retreat at Fort Lewis
MAY 3 – 7, 2026 | Fort Lewis Lodge and Farms
Dear BCAA members and artists,
Please join us for the spring Cowpasture River Preservation Association Artists Retreat to be held Sunday, May 3 to Thursday, May 7 at Fort Lewis Lodge and Farms.
Application Deadline is February 16. -
The 24th Annual Bath Bluegrass Jamboree
Saturday, April 11 | Bath County High School Auditorium
Allegheny Mountain Radio presents the 24th Annual Bath Bluegrass Jamboree. The event will feature headliner Nothin’ Fancy, a nationally recognized bluegrass band, with support from Wound Tight, a Southwest Virginia group playing traditional and original bluegrass, and Franklin Station, a five-piece band blending classic bluegrass, gospel, and country.
-
The Red House Residency
The Red House Residency offers emerging and established women artists a two-week solo retreat in remote Bath County, Virginia. Hosted by Amanda McGuire and Bill Reagan at Sycamore Bend farm, this residency provides a quiet space for reflection, focus, and artistic practice.
In exchange for lodging, participating artists are asked to host one small public event, such as a workshop, reading, or performance, within the local community.
For the summer of 2026, three residency sessions are available:
- RHR 1: Friday, May 22nd – Friday, June 6th
- RHR 2: Monday, August 31st – Monday, September 14th
- RHR 3: Tuesday, September 15th – Tuesday, September 29th
Please visit Red House Residency on Facebook, or email rhresidency2021@gmail.com with questions. Application is also available under Red House Residency tab on sycamorebendontheriver.com
Intentions to apply welcomed until February 28th.