The RAL Art Center dedicated their newly renovated Pike Studio on Tuesday, October 27 to a small group of friends and board members complying with all COVID guidelines. The Pike Studio presents the RAL Art Center and our entire community with a state-of-the-art learning environment. This renovation was made possible by the Otis G. Pike Charitable Trust through the generosity of Otis’ widow, trust executor and Kilmarnock resident, Barbe Bonjour Pike.
Doug Mock, Executive Director, commented “what was once an oversized storage facility where we would carve out space for students and artists has now been transformed into a bright, inviting and interactive studio, including a new kitchen for students and staff.”
The RAL Art Center was founded in 1949 by a small group of enthusiastic artists who came together to share, collaborate and expand their reach in the Northern Neck. Barbara Kershner, RAL Board President states “during the past 71 years RAL has seen tremendous growth and outreach. The Pike Studio provides a new and exciting space for local residents and visitors to participate in classes and workshops.”
RAL Art Center will promote this new space as “The Pike Studio...a great place to learn, grow and connect.” People of all ages and stages of life will learn new skills and have opportunities to pursue art. Participants will grow to new levels of self-confidence, self-awareness and self-esteem. Students and artists will connect through art and build a strong community of like-minded people establishing life-long friendships.
Mock states, “art is a critical component to the human existence and those who create, from the very beginners to the most accomplished, understand the road can be tough and those that persevere often find peace and joy in the creative process.”
The Pike Studio will be known throughout the Northern Neck and surrounding areas as THE place to go for art education, fine art and wonderful people! A public celebration and open house will be scheduled as soon as COVID guidelines allow.
