Discover the Artistic Heart of the Roanoke Region
Your Guide to the Fine Arts Venues and Programs in Downtown Roanoke (and Beyond!)
The Roanoke Region is filled with adventure, but maybe you’re craving exploration of a different sort. For artists and art lovers, downtown Roanoke is a vibrant hub filled with galleries, museums, studios, workshops, and charming storefronts. They even have a Downtown Roanoke Arts Collective if you want to learn more about that!
Whether you want to try out a beginner’s paint night, witness a breathtaking performance, or adorn your home with international artwork, our region’s traditional and fringe art scenes have something for every art enthusiast. Let’s explore some of the top fine-art destinations that make this area a must-visit for creatives.
By Contributor Sebastian Harlow – Arts Organizer & Collaborator, DEI Expert, and Get2KnowNoke Talent Ambassador.
Sebastian’s professional career path is focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion in academia. He is currently working at Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, but his passion surrounds the growth potential of Roanoke: downtown life, arts and culture, LGBTQ+ ‘mecca,’ business, and academic opportunities.
The Downtown Arts Collective, the Cultural Endowment, and the Roanoke Arts Commission all do amazing work, and Sebastian finds energy within these communities. Check out his list of favorites below and connect with Sebastian.
Alexander Heath
📷 @alexanderhealthcontemporary
Nestled in the heart of the Roanoke Arts District on Campbell Avenue, the Alexander | Heath Contemporary Gallery is a beacon for local and national artists. Every first Friday of the month, this gallery showcases a new artist, making it a dynamic and ever-changing experience. Conveniently located with easy access to the Aurora Artist Lofts and Studios, it’s an excellent spot to immerse yourself in the local art scene while supporting talented artists.
Market Gallery Roanoke
Located along the bustling Downtown Farmers Market, The Market Gallery is surrounded by some of the best eateries in town. This gallery offers a diverse range of art forms, from wall art to table pieces, making it a perfect spot to find unique gifts for loved ones. After soaking in the artistic atmosphere, grab dinner or a beer at nearby spots like Olde Salem Brewery or Jack Brown’s.
LinDor Arts
Just next to Art on 1st, LinDor Arts is a hidden gem showcasing abstract and decorative pieces. Don’t let the smaller size of the gallery deceive you, this gallery offers a whole new world of artistic exploration. It’s a must-visit for those looking to support local artists and experience unique artworks.
Elmwood Park Art Walk
Elmwood Park Art Walk is an enchanting sculpture stroll that you might stumble upon while entering Elmwood Park from Jefferson St. or Williamson Ave. Often surrounded by cultural and food festivals, the Art Walk offers different experiences of culture and interaction depending on the event. It’s a delightful way to enjoy art in a relaxed, outdoor setting.
Art on First
Positioned among the towering buildings of Roanoke, Art on 1st is a vibrant space featuring a variety of local artists in one spot. This gallery offers workshops for all skill levels, from beginners to masters. Whether you’re looking to create your own masterpiece or simply enjoy the works on display, Art on 1st is a fantastic place to experience and support local art.
Gallery 202 Studio
Part of the vibrant Market Square, Gallery 202 Studio is a collaborative space where artists come together to inspire and create. This studio is perfect for those who want to feel the pulse of the local art scene while supporting and engaging with talented creators.
Left of Center Arts Space
Located next to the bustling Center in the Square, Left of Center Arts Space offers endless opportunities to meet artists and even become one. You can’t get more centrally located than this, making the space an easy and essential stop for art lovers exploring downtown Roanoke.
The Little Gallery
On the edge of Market Square, The Little Gallery is a fine art gallery and consultancy providing art sourcing and art advisory services for residential, hospitality, and corporate spaces.
Open seven days a week, The Little Gallery features a wide-ranging collection of landscape, still life, abstract paintings, select photography, sculpture, and specialty gifts.
The Taubman Museum of Art
📷 @taubmanmuseum
The Taubman Museum is the crown jewel of the Roanoke Region’s arts community and a striking landmark in downtown Roanoke’s skyline, thanks to its impressive asymmetrical metal and glass design. Home to two to four permanent collections and one to two featured artists at any given time, this museum is a treasure trove of artistic expression.
The museum hosts regular after-hours events, festivals, art shows, and classes. It
is also a fabulous venue to host your own event or wedding. One of my favorites is The Art Venture, a space dedicated to fostering creativity in young minds and encouraging artistic expression for all ages.
Downtown Roanoke’s fine arts scene is a vibrant tapestry of creativity, culture, and community. Whether you’re a seasoned art aficionado or a curious newcomer, these destinations offer something special for everyone. So, why wait? Embark on your artistic journey today and let the Roanoke Region’s rich art scene inspire you! If you want to get more involved you can reach out to Sebastian, or connect with @Get2KnowNoke on Instagram or LinkedIn.
Quick List of Regional Hot Spots for Creatives
Quick Links from the Guide
- Alexander Heath Contemporary Gallery
- Art on 1st
- Gallery 202 Studio
- Elmwood Art Walk
- LinDor Arts
- Left of Center Arts Space
- The Little Gallery
- Market Gallery
- Taubman Museum of Art
Other Regional Hot Spots & Resources (Not Shown in Guide)
- Olin Hall Galleries at Roanoke College
- Motel Studios – Gallery & Open Studio Space
- Eleanor D. Wilson Museum at Hollins University
- Crafteria: Small Batch and Handmade Goods
- ArtVisions Gallery & Studio (Smith Mountain Lake)
- Carolina Road Gallery (Rocky Mount)
- The Loft Gallery at Black Dog Salvage
- Betty Branch Sculptors Studio
- Art’s Events List – Virginia’s Blue Ridge
- Galleries List – Virginia’s Blue Ridge
- Artist Directory – Virginia’s Blue Ridge
- Downtown Roanoke Art Galleries List
- Downtown Roanoke Inc. Attractions
About Sebastian
Sebastian’s professional career path is focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion in academia. He is currently working at Fralin Biomedical Research Institute, but his passion surrounds the growth potential of Roanoke: downtown life, arts and culture, LGBTQ+ ‘mecca,’ business, and academic opportunities. The Downtown Arts Collective, the Cultural Endowment, and the Roanoke Arts Commission all do amazing work, and Sebastian finds energy within these communities. Check out his list of favorites below and connect with Sebastian.
