
Our Mission
The Bay School Community Arts Center is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide people of all ages and abilities opportunities to learn, experience, and appreciate the arts. Through excellence and diversity in classes, exhibits, lectures, and performances, The Bay School is a gathering place for all.

Art That Tells a Story Exhibition
Continuing through July 21, you can still view the work of Collette Mann, Petya Ivanova, and Chris Jeanguenat. This is a show you don't want to miss!

July 17: Tasting Virginia Wines
We're back with another popular wine tasting this summer focusing on the vineyards and wineries of Virginia.

Help Kids Get Their Art On!
Until end of day August 31, we are conducting a summer fundraising drive to support our Summer Art Camp Scholarship Fund. We're more than halfway to our $12K goal!

Aug 16: Kids' Art Show & Ice Cream
Join us for this celebration of the creativity of kids who participated in the 2025 Summer Art Camps.
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July Artist of the Month: Jordan Flower
Meet the Artist & View His WorkVisit the Art Speaks Gallery during the month of July and see how his light-inspired work considers the interaction of manmade items and nature.
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Festive Faerie Tea Full of Fun!
See the PicturesOnce again, our annual Faerie Tea was a great success! Decked out in full faerie dress, participants gathered in the Art Speaks Gallery to socialize, make art, and have some fanciful fun!
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Prospectus Available An Artist's Journey: Student Art Show
Download the ProspectusIf you've taken a class at The Bay School and been inspired by what you've learned to create artwork, consider entering this show!
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Experience Creativity Throughout September
Learn MoreCheck out the many creative experiences you can enjoy during the first ever Mathews ARTFest!
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Mathews Plein Air 2025
Get More Information and RegisterRegistration is now open for artists wanting to participate in Mathews Plein Air 2025, September 18-20. This event is part of Mathews ArtFest which runs throughout the month of September.
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September 27: Save the Date! A Night in Paris Gala & Art Auction
Learn MoreThis year's gala will celebrate A Night in Paris and be held at Brighton Farm on the East River. Tickets will go on sale soon!
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Enroll Your Kids in This Year's C4K Community Camp
Learn MoreRunning August 4-8 from 10 AM-3PM, kids ages 6-12 will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of fun sessions with the Mathews Memorial Library, The Bay School Community Arts Center, Mathews Maritime Foundation, Mathews Master Gardeners, and a field trip to CA&J Farm. The week will conclude with a field day August 8.
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Get Our Newest Art Kit to Go!
View Available Kits & PurchaseWe currently have three different Art Kits to Go that will ignite the creative spark in you! Come by the gallery and pick one up or get it online.
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2025 Summer-Fall Classes and Kids' Summer Art Camps Online for Enrollment
View & Enroll in Classes and Art CampsWe have something for EVERYONE! Our 2025 Summer-Fall classes are now online and open for enrollment, and you can download a copy of the catalog. You can also request a hard copy of our newest class catalog.
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Join The Bay School's Creative Circle Open Studio
Learn MoreWe're starting the New Year with a new opportunity for artists to get together, share ideas, and make art in a community environment. The Creative Circle meets every 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of each month. Participation is FREE; come to one session or come to all.
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Become a Volunteer!
Learn More About VolunteeringWant to be part of a fun-loving, creative community? Consider volunteering with us at one of our many events or exhibitions.
Check our current opportunities to volunteer:
- Multiple Dates - Help us make paddles for the Gala auction. Sign Up
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Enjoy the Benefits of Membership!
Learn MoreStart 2025 off by becoming part of a vibrant community of art lovers and creative individuals of all ages. The Bay School recently updated and improved our membership program to offer our community even more reasons to join us!