Chip Chip carving by 
Becky Blackley

Works by the artists
above and many more
can be  purchased at
 the Artists At Work
Gallery.

Language of
Nature Collection
by Matthew Henry,
The Poet of Nature
Available from the
Chamber Office
 

Randolph County abounds with culture. Aside from the rich traditions celebrated during its various festivals, visitors can experience many types of dance and attend concerts that feature a wide range of musical styles from classical and jazz to Blues, Cajun, Irish and Old Time during the Augusta Heritage Arts Workshops..
     Elkins is also home to The Old Brick Playhouse, that, along with the Boiler House Theater on the Davis and Elkins College campus, provide stage plays of many types throughout the year. Local artists also display their work at various galleries and shops throughout the region.

For many years West Virginians have known that Randolph county is home to some of the best artisans in the East. From fine art painters to wood workers, jewelry makers, potters, basket makers, weavers and quilters, a wide variety of modern and heritage arts can be found here. Artists At Work, a local cooperative shop run by the artists is one fine example and a destination for many visitors.  Now calling the beautiful mountain highlands of Randolph County home is The Poet of Nature Matthew Henry, who has been gaining national notoriety as his work continues to be featured in prominent magazines and newspapers throughout the country.  Select pieces from his Language of Nature Collection are on display for viewing at the Visitors Center at the Highway 33 and 219 intersection..

Elkins being selected the "28th Best Small Arts Town in America" in 1996 is evidence of the county's commitment to the arts. ARTISTS AT WORK (an artist's cooperative store), and EXPRESSIONS are all places in Elkins where original artworks and items handcrafted by local artists can be found. Many artists in the area sell their work outside of the county and from their homes. The ELKINS SEWING CENTER also provides a wide variety of craft supplies, patterns, materials, quilting supplies and sewing classes.

Since 1973, the AUGUSTA HERITAGE CENTER has focused on providing workshops in the arts and grown to be one of the largest programs of its type in the nation. Their efforts to preserve the heritage of West Virginia has expanded into over 100 - one week courses per year in crafts, dance, folklore and music. An extensive concert schedule, a Fiddler's Reunion, Pickin' in the Park, Craft Showcases and apprenticeships have become part of the expanding program available to all ages. Additional information on this unique program is available by calling (304) 637-1209 or fax number (304) 637-1317.

The cast at the OLD BRICK PLAYHOUSE located in Elkins produces several productions each year that are open to the public. A lecture series and theater productions are also offered to the public by Davis and Elkins College. The Highlanders, a nationally known bagpipe group, sponsored by Davis and Elkins College, often perform at local events; and the Wheeling Symphony visits Elkins each year.

The Annual International Ramp Festival and Cookoff, The Mountain State Forest Festival and the Augusta Festival offer a wide variety of hand crafted items and demonstrations by the artists. A varied selection of music (old-time, country, gospel, Irish, blues, etc.,) is also included in these events.

For additional information on the extensive arts, crafts and festivals available in Randolph County contact the Tourist Information Center at 1-800-422-3304. Or simply e-mail us at the link directly below.