“Chestnut Creek School of the Arts is the hidden gem of Galax.” —Nicole Mckenna

Welcome to Chestnut Creek School of the Arts! We are a unique, hybrid organization formed as a function of the City of Galax.   Created as a vehicle to stimulate economic growth in the community we have formed our own non-profit and discovered that this is just as much about community development as it is economic development.

We offer classes, events and exhibits year-round for all ages in one of three studios located in the heart of downtown Galax. We have fully equipped studios in: Woodworking, Pottery, Stained Glass, Metalsmithing, Sewing, Painting, Printmaking and offer classes in several other disciplines.

It is our mission to preserve the cultural heritage unique to this region, communicate the value of the arts through hands-on instruction, create an environment conducive to learning free of intimidation. Our classes are designed for those visiting this area as well as those living in this region with evening and weekend classes. With help in funding from the Twin County Community Foundation we are now offering a multitude of workshops during the day serving but not limited to: Seniors, Homeschoolers, Veterans and those with special needs.

In addition to our classes we offer several community service opportunities including but not limited to: Empty Bowls- Helping feed the hungry and Stuffed with Love- Making stuffed animals for kids in trauma with plans to create miniature libraries in our Wood Studio. It is free to participate in our community service projects and they are designed so that everyone can participate in a meaningful way.

We believe that Art is for everyone and everyone has an inherent ability to create. Our Main Building was the first bank in Galax built in 1932. It was historically renovated and houses our Gift Shop, Administrative Offices and Studios: Stained Glass, Metalsmithing, Painting, Drawing, Printmaking, and Music. With support from Department of Housing and Community Development, Department of Agriculture, The Tobacco Commission, Rural Development we were able to purchase equipment and tools necessary to not only teach our classes but be available to students and community members for use outside of class in the spirit on entrepreneurial growth.

We offer a Junior Appalachian Music Program allowing students aged 9-13 the opportunity to borrow a guitar, fiddle, mandolin, or banjo coming twice a week for two terms in the school year to learn local old time music. We also are home to the Bobby Patterson lending library, providing use of a wide variety of instrument for those wishing to learn to play an instrument.

We have one full time and five part-time staff members and over 50 volunteers. Our Executive Founding Director, Chris Pollins reports both to the City of Galax City Manager and City Council, but also to a 15 member board of Directors governing the non-profit.