Bringing the Arts to Life

In Hampshire County,

West Virginia

The Hampshire County Arts Council fosters the creation,  presentation and enjoyment of the arts in our community.


HCAC sees the arts as an integral part of daily life. An art-rich environment enhances the quality of life for residents and visitors and encourages the development, recognition and appreciation of local performers, musicians, artists, and writers.

It's easy... just one click awaySo Easy… Just one click away!!!

Message from the pres – 

What is an artist? A ukelele player and singer/actor in our community recently commented – “I can’t draw a straight line (so I am not an artist?).” There are so many arts beyond the ones that first spring to mind. From whittling to whistling, quilting (a woman’s art scorned for too long as just work) to quilling, baskets to batik – our creative minds have so many outlets.

The Hampshire County Arts Council celebrates 30 years of bringing the arts to the community at the Annual Gathering, April 20 at 6 pm for dinner and a business meeting (doors open at 5:45). The dinner is free and is being catered by the Hampshire High School Pro-Start program. Members and the public are invited to share memories and plans for the future. 

Culinary artists are invited to showcase their creativity with a dessert to share. This has become a yearly tradition and much anticipated.

Every year we elect and/or re-elect directors for the Board. This year we have 2 spaces available. If you would like to help bring the arts to Hampshire County, please let us know. No artistic skills required!!!!

A free concert will follow at 7:30 with the “Famous International Hillbilly Singing Stars.” These singing stars are Frankie “Rev.” Revell, Greg “Dr. Banjo” Latta, Chuck “Chuckster” Sherry,  “Juke Joint” Jake, and Jim “Junkyard” Morris, who explains, “We blur the lines between classic rock, folk, and bluegrass with an eclectic mixture of material.” Doors for the free concert will open at 7:15.

This evening of celebration will be held in the Theatre (Marlin Lane Rankin Hall) in the Brannon Building on the WVSDB Campus in Romney. (corner of N. Antigo and E. Birch)The International Hillbilly Singing Stars

2024 Arts Scholarship Announced

HCAC is proud to continue offering the Arts Scholarship, designed to support and nurture aspiring artists within our community.  HCAC is committed to promoting artistic expression and fostering cultural enrichment in Hampshire County and beyond. As part of our dedication to the arts, we have created this scholarship to empower talented individuals in our county pursuing artistic endeavors.

The application deadline for 2024 is May 21st. Click here for details.

2024 Spring Fine Art Show 

Judge Linda Volrath with Best-In-Show winner

2024 Spring Fine Art Show judge Linda Volrath chose Kristen Colebank’s “Field Day” as Best-in-Show.  
For more pictures and winners click here.

Learn Quilling with Holly Landes

Hampshire County Arts Council Quilling Class For more information, email classes@HampshireArts.org

Art in Public Places

We are always looking for new artists and celebrating our favorites. 

With the support of local businesses, you can see who is doing what at the following locations

  • FNB Romney, 105 N. High St, Romney, Julie Farrar’s sculptures  until May 16, 2024
  • Angela Joy Barrett’s exhibit of acrylic paintings on canvas The Bank of Romney, 95 E. Main St. until May 13, 2024
    Paintings by Angela Joy Barrett
  • Romney Federal Credit Union, 62 W. Main St. Marker & Pencil Drawings by the Art Class at Special Services Center Workshop until May 13, 2024paintings by students in Special Services Workshop

For more music, art and fun nearby, check these venues —

The Hampshire County Co-op & Heritage Marketplace in Romney WV

The River House in Capon Bridge WV

The Cat and The Fiddle in Capon Bridge WV offers classes

The Purple Fiddle in Thomas WV

The Allegany Arts Council in Cumberland Md offers a wide variety of events.

Thank You!

The Hampshire County Arts Council sincerely thanks our faithful sponsors whose contributions allow us to offer the community many events each year.

American Insurance Center
Patty Anderson
Wendy & Roger Anderson
Anonymous Donor
The Bank of Romney
Kristen Colebank
John D’Amico
James & Janis Dodgins
FNB Bank
Pam Francis
Stephanie Fulcher
Janet & Neil Gillies

Lois Groves
Lisa & Daniel Hileman
Dottie Eddis & Lowell Hott
Steven Humphrey
Dorothy Kengla
Koolwink Motel
Lamberts Drug Store
Bonnie Long
Melissa Snell & Larry Manning
Dave Martin
Sydney & Edward Maurer

Michelle Nilssen & Dave McNally
Susie & Gil Meyer
Savanna & Clarke Morgret
Paula & Michael O’Brien
Potomac Eagle Scenic Railroad
Beth & Tim Reese
Romney Federal Credit Union
Rick Schneider
Seeds of Grace Acres
Daniel Staggers


  Time to Renew Memberships

The Hampshire County Arts Council’s membership year runs from April 1 through March 31 each year, with membership renewal in April. On-Line Renewal is available by clicking the Join/Renewal Online Button or mail your check to Hampshire County Arts Council, P.O. Box 624, Romney, WV  26757.

Your Donations are Appreciated

The Hampshire County Arts Council values our sponsors that are dedicated to continuing the art culture in and around Hampshire County.  On-Line Donations are accepted by clicking the Donate Button or by mailing your check to Hampshire County Arts Council, P.O. Box 624, Romney, WV, 26757.Saturday, Aug. 26,20