Art Lovers Flock To The Small Town That Put West Virginia's Creative Scene On The Map

The traditional art scenes is changing, with a gradual shift away from mainstream platforms like large, centralized galleries or museums, particularly as social media offers wider distribution of localized art and creators. The phenomenon is a growing trend worldwide, with small art communities becoming more prevalent across the U.S. and Europe. What better way to discover the history and cultural heritage of a place than through the eyes and imagination of its local visionaries? One such treasure trove of creativity and artistic expression is the underrated little artsy town of Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, listed in John Villani's 100 Best Art Towns In America guide.

Nestled between Cacapon Mountain and Sleepy Creek Mountain in the state's eastern panhandle, Berkeley Springs is historically best known for its thermal springs, which have attracted visitors from across the country for their healing properties. The charming town's historic architecture and mountainside location offer plenty of reasons to pay it a visit, drawing a diverse array of tourists. Adding to its appeal, Berkeley Springs became recognized for its burgeoning art scene in the late 1970s, after the Morgan Arts Council (MAC), was established there. The town's Ice House—an old cold storage building—is the town's central artistic hub, operating as a community center. Hailed as West Virginia's first art community, Berkeley Springs has grown into a thriving art hub, celebrating local art in its many forms, from film to fine art and sculpture. The town regularly hosts exhibits, festivals, studio tours, and concerts to showcase the best of local creatives.

Berkeley Springs is a dream come true for art lovers, with several galleries and studios showcasing works by local artists in a variety of media. Mountain Laurel Artisans is both part gallery and gift shop, featuring displays of art from local artisans, including glassware, jewelry, and pottery. Here, visitors can not only view but purchase pieces, allowing artists to not only proudly showcase their skills, but offers a means of support for their craft and livelihood.

Attending the self-guided Berkeley Springs Studio Tour in the fall is a fantastic way to learn more about the town's working artists and gain an insight into their creative process, while also having the opportunity to purchase their work. The event offers a unique, intimate look into the local art and allows direct engagement with the artists, an experience not always possible in larger galleries. A tour map is available at the Ice House or can be downloaded from the event's website.

The town's commitment to art extends beyond gallery walls. Public art is visible throughout its streets, immersing visitors in its creativity at every turn. The Morgan Arts Council runs the Engage Berkeley Springs, a project which commissions new public art and workshops. Art In The Park, an outdoor art fair, operates on most weekends throughout the year. Local and regional artists present their pieces, made from an array of materials. Check their Facebook page for scheduling and updates.

Berkeley Springs' creativity and community spirit are also evident in its film and theatre spaces. The Berkeley Springs Film Festival is an annual event for creators of independent filmmakers, screening works at a new, carefully selected location each year. Alongside screenings, seminars, demonstrations, and discussions immerse visitors in the world of film. The town's performing arts community is also thriving. The Ice House Theatre Project stages four main performances throughout the year, from small scale productions to larger performances. Ticket prices for these events are discounted for MAC members, and a membership is a great way to support the local creative community and promote its longevity. The Historic Star Theatre is another popular venue for community events, like live music and fundraisers, such as Love-a-Palooza!, which supports the Star Community Center Student Arts Scholarship Fund.

The Berkeley Springs Castle adds a unique flair to the town's artistic endeavours, hosting art-inclusive events like the Apple Butter Festival, held annually in the fall. Alongside the traditional festival activities and celebration of apple butter made from scratch, the event also features stalls and creations from craft vendors. Meanwhile, the Ice House Co-Op Gallery in downtown is made up of a team of 30 artists, and hosts rotating art shows throughout the year. Regardless of whether you consider yourself to be an artist, an art collector, or simply curious about art culture, Berkeley Springs offers a welcoming artistic environment where creativity and the arts are championed. Escape to this charming small town where artistry thrives amidst picturesque mountainous surroundings.