FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

General Questions

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Where is FTAS located?
Florence Thomas Art School is in the heart of downtown West Jefferson, NC. Our physical address is 10 S Jefferson Ave, West Jefferson, NC 28694.

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Is your building handicap accessible?
Yes, our building features a sidewalk ramp and wheelchair-friendly restrooms.

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What types of classes and workshops do you offer?
We offer a variety of heritage crafts and fine arts workshops for adults, children, and intergenerational groups.

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Do you offer classes for children?
Yes! We offer both paid and free Children’s Workshops, Intergenerational (Adult & Child) workshops, and private art events for children throughout the year.

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Are your workshops open to beginners?
Many of our workshops are beginner-friendly. Each workshop description will specify the required skill level.

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What is included in the class tuition? Do I need to bring my own supplies?
For most beginner workshops, supplies and instruction are included in the tuition. If you need to purchase your own materials, it will be clearly noted on the registration page.

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Do you offer scholarships or financial assistance?
Yes! We aim to make the arts accessible to everyone. If you or someone you know needs financial assistance to attend a workshop, please submit a scholarship form. Our program provides opportunities for those who may not otherwise be able to participate.

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Registration and Policies

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How do I register for a class or workshop?
Browse our upcoming workshops here.

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What is your cancellation and refund policy?

• Registration fees are non-refundable after a class or workshop begins.

• Cancellation requests must be emailed to jessa.ftas@gmail.com.

• 30+ days before start date: Full refund.

• 14–29 days before start date: Full refund minus a $25 cancellation fee.

• Less than 14 days before start date: No refunds or transfers.

• Missed days, early departures, no-shows, and processing/material fees are non-refundable.

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Can I join a class after it has already started?
No, prior registration is required to maintain the flow of the class and minimize disruptions.

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What happens if a class I’m enrolled in gets canceled?
If a class is canceled after meeting minimum enrollment, students will be notified via email, text, or phone. We will make every effort to reschedule or provide a substitute instructor. If rescheduling is not possible, a credit will be added to your profile for future use. Weather-related cancellations will be announced on our Facebook and Instagram pages. Weather-related cancellations will be announced on FTAS's official Facebook and Instagram pages. Make-up classes will be offered whenever possible. If rescheduling is not feasible, a credit will be added to your profile for use toward a future class.

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Is there a waitlist if a class is full?
Yes, our registration platform offers a waitlist option. You’ll be notified by text or email if a spot becomes available.

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Do you offer private art lessons or custom events?
Yes, we currently offer Private Art Events for both adults and children. Learn more on our Private Events Page.

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How to Get Involved

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Do you have community programs or outreach efforts?
Yes! Florence Thomas Art School is passionate about making art accessible for people of all ages and abilities. Learn more about our initiatives on the Children’s stART Program and SPARK Creative Aging pages.

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How can I get involved?
We’re always grateful for our volunteers and donors. Whether you’re helping at events or supporting our mission financially, your involvement makes a difference. To volunteer, click here. To donate, click here. Every contribution helps us provide memorable, transformative art experiences for our community.

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For Visitors

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What are your gallery and gift shop hours?
Our gallery and gift shop are open Monday–Saturday, 10 AM–4:30 PM. We are closed on Sunday.

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Can I visit the school without attending a class?
Yes! Visitors are welcome to explore our rotating exhibitions, gallery space, and gift shop. We also host free open studio events in our workshop space. Subscribe to our monthly newsletter to stay updated on events and workshops.

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Are your facilities accessible for individuals with disabilities?
Yes, we have a sidewalk ramp leading to the building and two wheelchair-accessible restrooms.