The Rutherford County Visual Artists Guild was established in 1999. Membership is open to artists in any medium as well as to non-artists who wish to help the Guild develop a thriving arts community.

Over the years, the Guild has sponsored many opportunities for local artists and craftsmen to promote their work and improve their skills and marketing strategies.

The Guild’s major annual event is “Celebration of the Arts” held in September in the Foundation Conference and Performing Arts Center at Isothermal Community College.

In 2009, the Guild opened the Visual Arts Center (VAC) on Main Street in Rutherfordton. The VAC gives Guild members a permanent exhibit and sales venue and provides studio space for artists to work on a regular basis and classroom space for workshops and education. Month-long exhibits are held for various art forms throughout the year.

Guild members and guest artists offer both regular weekly classes and special event workshops.

As a totally volunteer non-profit organization, the Guild relies on members to carry out all the tasks related to maintaining the organization and keeping the Visual Arts Center open. When you fill out a membership application, be sure to let us know about your interests and skills.