CALENDAR
Upcoming Events
VSU Department of Art & Design Juried Student Show
This exhibition is a celebration of collaboration between VSU College of Art & Design students and PAAL, bringing together emerging talent and the local art community. Curated by juror Drew Lynch, the show highlights the creativity, skill, and vision of students who are shaping the future of art in our region. Join us in supporting these artists and experience a vibrant showcase that connects education, innovation, and community.
Open Studio
Open Studio is a relaxed, inclusive creative time for artists of all skill levels. Bring your own art or project, mingle with other makers, and enjoy a supportive environment to create, share ideas, and experience the power of community through art.
Weaving for the Soul: A Basket Series
Join us for this four-part series on basket weaving. See details.
Crafted Rabbit: Creative Supply Re-Use Pop Up
Join us for our Creative Supply Re-Use Pop every other Saturday during Farmers Market hours. Craft supplies are expensive, but creativity doesn’t have to be. Bring your own bag and stock up to reduce, reuse, and recycle once-loved art supplies!
Altered Journals
Create, reflect, and make together.
Altered Journaling: A Creative Practice Club begins Feb 26 at PAAL. Guided prompts, simple techniques, and time to experiment.
Bring your bookbinding journal—or one you already have.
Dreaming the Miracle
This class led by A. Logan Hill, consists of writing exercises and workshop discussions centering around the methods of making to include "ekphrasis" & "incongruous compatibility" as a means for world building in addition to writing through and about dreams (real or imagined). Students will explore how to make and design broadsides, little zines, and other print related materials to include the use of vintage typewriters to create original works. Instruction will focus on creative writing and storytelling with a wide variety of outcomes.
Drawing with Jen ft. Colored Pencil Techniques: Layering & Blending
May 7 | 6:30–8 PM
Colored Pencil Techniques: Layering & Blending
Learn how to build depth, texture, and dimension using colored pencil techniques. This class focuses on layering, shading, and blending to strengthen drawing skills and control.
Painting Class: Turning Joy into Acrylic Art
Laughter: Turning Joy into Acrylic Art
Turn expressions of laughter into bold, expressive acrylic paintings. Through brainstorming, sketching, and painting, you’ll translate joy into color, form, and text. The class ends with a finished, graphic-style artwork celebrating happiness.
Cyanotype Magic: Sun-Printed Photography
May 16 | 1–3 PM
Cyanotype Magic: Sun-Printed Photography
Create striking blue-toned prints using sunlight, natural materials, and light-sensitive paper. You’ll experiment with composition and exposure to produce two unique cyanotype prints. This workshop blends science, nature, and creative exploration.
Open Studio: ATC Exchange & Free Little Gallery
May 19 | 6:30–8 PM
Open Studio: ATC Exchange & Free Little Gallery
A relaxed creative session focused on making Artist Trading Cards and contributing to a community exchange. Participants can experiment freely while helping build a collaborative mini gallery.
Gelli Plate Printmaking: Layers & Image Transfers
May 21 | 6–8 PM
Gelli Plate Printmaking: Layers & Image Transfers
Explore layered printmaking using gel plates, textures, and laser-printed imagery. You’ll learn techniques like ghost printing, stenciling, and image transfer. Expect a playful, experimental process with unique results every time.
The Deloreans Live in the Art Park
Enjoy beer and wine for adults, watch live painters in action, and soak in the vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere. All ages are welcome, and we encourage everyone to dress up and join the fun!
Don’t miss this unforgettable night of music, art, and community.
Jonathan Paige Brown Live in the Art Park
Jonathan Paige Brown Jr. blends Americana, alternative, and soulful storytelling into a dynamic live performance. Expect heartfelt lyrics, rich instrumentation, and a sound that bridges roots music with modern influences.
Magnolia Live in the Art Park
Magnolia delivers an improvisational jam band experience filled with extended grooves, layered melodies, and feel-good energy. Perfect for a laid-back summer evening, their sound invites audiences to relax, dance, and enjoy the moment.
Plunky + Oneness Live in the Art Park
Plunky + Oneness brings a powerful fusion of jazz, funk, and world rhythms. Known for their electrifying performances, this group creates a vibrant atmosphere that blends musical virtuosity with irresistible groove.
Ramona & The Holy Smokes
Ramona and the Holy Smokes close out the series with a rootsy blend of country, Americana, and rock. Their authentic sound and engaging stage presence make for the perfect finale to a season of music in the park.
Dreaming the Miracle
This class led by A. Logan Hill, consists of writing exercises and workshop discussions centering around the methods of making to include "ekphrasis" & "incongruous compatibility" as a means for world building in addition to writing through and about dreams (real or imagined). Students will explore how to make and design broadsides, little zines, and other print related materials to include the use of vintage typewriters to create original works. Instruction will focus on creative writing and storytelling with a wide variety of outcomes.
Acrylic Cassette Painting Class
New Class for 2026!
Vintage Cassette Tape Painting Night!
Rewind, sip, and get creative! Transform a canvas into your own colorful, retro cassette tape. Beer or wine included! 🍷🍺
Thursday, April 16 | 6–8:30 PM
$25 - all supplies included
Sign up on our website and make a mix tape masterpiece!
Crafted Rabbit: Creative Re-Use Pop Up
Join us for our Creative Supply Re-Use Pop every other Saturday during Farmers Market hours. Craft supplies are expensive, but creativity doesn’t have to be. Bring your own bag and stock up to reduce, reuse, and recycle once-loved art supplies!
Weaving for the Soul: A Basket Series
Join us for this four-part series on basket weaving. See details.
Oil Pastel Drawing Class
Participants will practice still life drawing while learning helpful tips and techniques from Jen Lowery, PAAL’s Education Director. This relaxed session is a great way to build your skills, try something new, and enjoy time making art with others.
$5 to participate. All skill levels welcome! ✏️
Dreaming the Miracle
This class led by A. Logan Hill, consists of writing exercises and workshop discussions centering around the methods of making to include "ekphrasis" & "incongruous compatibility" as a means for world building in addition to writing through and about dreams (real or imagined). Students will explore how to make and design broadsides, little zines, and other print related materials to include the use of vintage typewriters to create original works. Instruction will focus on creative writing and storytelling with a wide variety of outcomes.
Watercolor Painting Class
Watercolor Class
Join us at the Petersburg Area Art League for an accessible, hands-on watercolor class open to all ages and skill levels. This relaxed, guided session is perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike.
Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or looking to experiment and loosen up your practice, this class is for you!
All materials are provided, and the class is just $5, making it an easy way to spend an evening creating and connecting.
Date: April 2nd
Time: 6–8 PM
Location: Petersburg Area Art League
Cost: $5
Materials: Provided
Ages: All ages & skill levels welcome
Crafted Rabbit: Creative Supply Re-Use Pop Up
Join us for our Creative Supply Re-Use Pop every other Saturday during Farmers Market hours. Craft supplies are expensive, but creativity doesn’t have to be. Bring your own bag and stock up to reduce, reuse, and recycle once-loved art supplies!
Weaving for the Soul: A Basket Series
Join us for this four-part series on basket weaving. See details.
March Open Studio
Join us for Open Studio, a relaxed, creative gathering where artists of all levels can come together to make, share, and spark ideas.
Open Studios are hosted on the last Tuesday of each month and require no RSVP. Just drop in!
Dreaming the Miracle
This class led by A. Logan Hill, consists of writing exercises and workshop discussions centering around the methods of making to include "ekphrasis" & "incongruous compatibility" as a means for world building in addition to writing through and about dreams (real or imagined). Students will explore how to make and design broadsides, little zines, and other print related materials to include the use of vintage typewriters to create original works. Instruction will focus on creative writing and storytelling with a wide variety of outcomes.
Crafted Rabbit: Creative Supply Re-Use Pop Up
Join us for our Creative Supply Re-Use Pop every other Saturday during Farmers Market hours. Craft supplies are expensive, but creativity doesn’t have to be. Bring your own bag and stock up to reduce, reuse, and recycle once-loved art supplies!
Weaving for the Soul: A Basket Series
Join us for this four-part series on basket weaving. See details.
Appomattox Regional Governor's School Spring Show
PAAL is proud to showcase the upcoming works and talent of the Appomattox Regional Governor’s School (ARGS) Students from the Visual Arts Department.
Opening Receptions: March 13th, 5:00pm - 8:00pm.
Petersburg High School Spring Show
For the first time ever, PAAL is proud to display artwork from the graduating members of the Petersburg High School (PHS) National Art Honor Society.
Dreaming the Miracle: An Interdisciplinary Creative Writing Workshop
This class led by A. Logan Hill, consists of writing exercises and workshop discussions centering around the methods of making to include "ekphrasis" & "incongruous compatibility" as a means for world building in addition to writing through and about dreams (real or imagined). Students will explore how to make and design broadsides, little zines, and other print related materials to include the use of vintage typewriters to create original works. Instruction will focus on creative writing and storytelling with a wide variety of outcomes.
Watercolor Painting Class
Join us at the Petersburg Area Art League for an accessible, hands-on watercolor class open to all ages and skill levels. This relaxed, guided session is perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike.
Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or looking to experiment and loosen up your practice, this class is for you!
All materials are provided, and the class is just $5, making it an easy way to spend an evening creating and connecting.
Artist Talk: Charles Magistro
Join us for this free talk as we welcome back Charles Magistro to speak about his artist journey and creative practices.
Crafted Rabbit: Creative Supply Re-Use Pop Up
Join us for our Creative Supply Re-Use Pop every other Saturday during Farmers Market hours. Craft supplies are expensive, but creativity doesn’t have to be. Bring your own bag and stock up to reduce, reuse, and recycle once-loved art supplies!
Shrinky Dink Keychains Class
Get ready to draw, color, and watch your art magically shrink! In this hands-on class, participants will design their own Shrinky Dink artwork and transform it into a custom keychain or pendant.
Altered Journaling: A Creative Practice Club
Introducing Altered Journaling: A Creative Practice Club
Beginning February 26, join us for a monthly, guided altered journaling session at PAAL. Each gathering begins with a shared prompt and simple techniques, followed by time to experiment in your journal, cutting, layering, drawing, painting, writing, or responding however the page leads you.
Bring the journal you created in our bookbinding class or bring one you already have.
This is a supportive, judgment-free space to slow down, reflect, and create together. No pressure! Just curiosity, community, and time to make.
Drawing with Jen
This course is designed to get participants immersed in foundational drawing techniques and skills, whether as beginners, as a refresher, or as conditioning for tenured illustrators.
February Open Studio
Join us for Open Studio, a relaxed, creative gathering where artists of all levels can come together to make, share, and spark ideas.
Open Studios are hosted on the last Tuesday of each month and require no RSVP. Just drop in!
Felt Heart Ornaments Class
Learn how to make handmade 4"x4" felt heart ornaments using felt, sequins, beads, and colorful embroidery threads.
Watercolor Painting Class
Join us at the Petersburg Area Art League for an accessible, hands-on watercolor class open to all ages and skill levels. This relaxed, guided session is perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike.
Whether you’re picking up a brush for the first time or looking to experiment and loosen up your practice, this class is for you!
All materials are provided, and the class is just $5, making it an easy way to spend an evening creating and connecting.
Embroidered Lockets Class
Create a wearable work of art in this embroidered locket class designed for all skill levels. In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn a variety of embroidery stitches and techniques while designing a miniature piece to fit inside a locket frame.
All materials are included, and you’ll have the freedom to choose your subject—florals, decorative patterns, letters or initials, or a design of your own. Whether you prefer something classic, playful, or personal, you’ll be guided through the process from design to finished stitch.
Charles Magistro Exhibition
Charles Magistro
The Petersburg Area Art League presents an exhibition of work by Professor Charles Magistro, featuring surreal and abstract paintings that blur the line between reality and imagination. Through symbolic figures and evocative landscapes, Magistro invites viewers to explore themes of emotion, memory, and personal interpretation.
On view February 13–March 7, 2026, with an opening reception on February 13 from 5:00–8:00 PM, at the Petersburg Area Art League in downtown Petersburg, VA.