The mission of Florence Thomas Art School is to provide resources for instruction, exhibition and experience in the fine arts and heritage crafts for Ashe County and the region.
We strive to support our mission and vision through:
- Offering education in all media of the fine arts
- Preserving the cultural heritage of the Blue Ridge Mountains through offering workshops and demonstrations in the heritage crafts
- Engaging underserved youths and adults with meaningful arts experiences through our Outreach Programs
- Promoting and preserving the Florence Thomas legacy
- Providing exhibition space
- Fostering an environment for creative thought and artistic expression.
Florence Art School Board of Directors
Executive Board
- Michael Howell, President
- Pat Beaver, Secretary
- Lydia de la Cerda, Treasurer
Directors
- Bob Powell
- Jennifer Gardiner Wilson
- Christina Freeman
- Cindy Price
- Karen Hall
- Brenda Smith
Foundation Board of Directors
- John Cannon, Chairman
- Eva Ingle, Treasurer
- Kyle Hall
- Doug Munroe
- Tom Efford
- Kimberly Perzel
Staff
- Kathleen Janowiak, Executive Director
- Denise Calhoun, Gallery Director
- Leila Spriggs, Director of Operations
Florence Thomas Art School is a 501c3 nonprofit. The Art School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship and other school-administered programs. Florence Thomas Art School is handicap accessible.