News Summary
The Beverley Street Studio School in Staunton will officially close after 33 years, due to financial difficulties and declining enrollment exacerbated by the pandemic. Founded by a group of artists, the school has been a vital part of the local arts community, contributing greatly to art education. A farewell celebration will take place to honor its legacy, and there are plans for the distribution of its assets to support other nonprofit organizations. Local art enthusiasts can explore alternative art opportunities following the closure.
Staunton to Bid Farewell to Beverley Street Studio School
The Beverley Street Studio School (BSSS) in Staunton will officially close its doors on December 12, 2025, after 33 years of operation. The decision comes as the school has faced significant financial challenges, necessitating a careful and considerate end to its long-standing legacy.
According to Board President Dana Quillen, the closure was made after thoughtful reflection on the school’s pivotal role in the community and its declining operational viability. BSSS has not turned a profit for nearly a decade and has struggled with various factors that impacted its sustainability. These include rising operational costs, increased competition from similar organizations, decreasing funding sources, and a dwindling pool of volunteers to assist with programs.
Financial Struggles Leading to Closure
In recent years, the school has seen a sharp decline in enrollment exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused participation to drop by a staggering 40 percent. Established by five artists in 1992 with the mission of providing foundational art instruction, BSSS has historically been supported by a vibrant community of volunteers. However, volunteer engagement began to wane significantly by the late 1990s and early 2000s, contributing to the school’s ongoing difficulties. Maintaining adequate resources for studio-based learning has proven increasingly challenging in today’s competitive arts education landscape.
A Lasting Impact on the Community
Founded by notable artists including Frank Hobbs, Ron Boehmer, Rosalee Day White, Daniel Dempsey, and Ryan Russel, BSSS transitioned to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2002. The school focused on offering innovative non-degree programs that emphasized practical studio instruction. Throughout its operation, BSSS provided five classes and six workshops per session, establishing itself as a crucial educational center for serious art study outside traditional academia. Over the years, it has moved locations and has ultimately settled at 217 W. Beverley Street.
Farewell Celebration and Future Plans
To commemorate the institution’s closure and its contributions to the local arts scene, community members are invited to a farewell celebration on November 11, 2025. This event will include a silent auction featuring artworks created by students and faculty of BSSS, acting as a tribute to the creativity nurtured within its walls. After the school officially closes, the BSSS Gallery will remain accessible to the public until February 2026, continuing to showcase existing works while providing a final space for reflection on the school’s impact.
Distribution of Assets
As a nonprofit entity, BSSS is obligated to distribute its remaining financial assets to other nonprofit organizations. The specifics of this asset allocation will be determined in 2026, ensuring that the legacy of BSSS continues to support the local arts community.
Alternative Art Opportunities in the Area
Following the school’s closure, art enthusiasts in Staunton can explore alternative options for artistic engagement. Local organizations such as the Staunton Augusta Art Center, Shenandoah Valley Art Center, and McGuffey Art Center provide venues for studying and appreciating visual arts, allowing residents to continue their artistic journeys despite the loss of BSSS.
The announcement of Beverley Street Studio School’s closure marks the end of an era in Staunton’s art education landscape, leaving behind a rich legacy of creativity, community, and artistic growth.
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Additional Resources
- WHSV: Beverley Street Studio School Announces Upcoming Closure
- Wikipedia: Art Education
- News Leader: Staunton’s Beverley Street Studio School Closes
- Google Search: Beverley Street Studio School closure
- Augusta Free Press: Staunton Beverley Street Studio School to End Classes & Workshops in December
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nonprofit organization
- Rocktown Now: Beverley Street Studio School in Staunton Closing in December
- Google News: Staunton art education
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