upcoming events
Think Like An Artist
Think Like an Artist is a free weekly program at the HMA Satellite at Valley Hills Mall that explores how artists approach creativity. Led by artist and HMA staff member Jim Wojtowicz, each session includes a focused look at how artists see and solve problems, followed by an open Q&A. Whether you’re a working artist looking for new ideas or simply curious about how creativity works, you’ll walk away with practical insights you can use in your own work and daily life.
Lecture on Jackson Pollock with Carl Shatley
“Abstract painting is abstract — it confronts you.”, Jackson Pollock was the first American abstract painter to be taken seriously in Europe. He was also one of the most influential and controversial painters of the twentieth century. He was also an alcoholic with a quick temper and quick fists — he once said “The problem isn’t painting; it’s what to do when you aren’t painting.”
A major figure in the abstract expressionist movement he was widely noticed for his “drip technique” which was also called all-over painting or action painting. His extreme form of abstraction divided the art critics: some praised the immediacy of his creations, while others derided the random effects he achieved.
We will delve into his reclusive and volatile personality while taking a close look at the progression of his work and ultimately why he is considered an artist of such stature and high regard in our century.
Presenter Carl Shatley is an accomplished educator, lecturer and artist who holds a Master of Arts degree in History from Duke University and Bachelor of Arts degree in Art from Greensboro College. He also studied at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and Guilford Technical Community College.
Tickets: $15; $10
CANCELLED: Hard Hat Tour with HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes
Join HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes for a behind-the-scenes look at the renovation process happening on the Salt Block.
Space is limited to 5 people per tour, but we will be offering the tour most Fridays! Secure your spot by submitting your RSVP at the button below.
Come see our progress!
Inside Look with Seth Lee
Inside Look invites you to connect with local artists as they share the stories behind their work, their creative process, and what inspires them to create. Join us at HMA’s satellite location in Valley Hills Mall for engaging talks, live demos, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art-making journey. Free admission — donations always welcome!
Seth Lee has been the mastermind behind the community painting project at our satellite location. Come learn more about his inspiration, background as an artist, and process!
guildHMA Volunteer Appreciation Reception
Join us as we honor the incredible volunteers who give their time, talent, and hearts to make a difference. This special event is our way of saying thank you for the countless hours of dedication, compassion, and hard work that strengthen our community every day.
Think Like An Artist
Think Like an Artist is a free weekly program at the HMA Satellite at Valley Hills Mall that explores how artists approach creativity. Led by artist and HMA staff member Jim Wojtowicz, each session includes a focused look at how artists see and solve problems, followed by an open Q&A. Whether you’re a working artist looking for new ideas or simply curious about how creativity works, you’ll walk away with practical insights you can use in your own work and daily life.
Coffee In The Coe: Art + Exhibitions Round-table Discussion with Clarissa
Join us for a round table discussion on HMA's exhibitions and latest news in the art world. Admission is free!
Degas and the Little Dancer - Hickory Ballet and Performing Arts
Join us for a night celebrating the artwork of Edgar Degas with our friends at Hickory Museum of Art in the Drendel Auditorium on the SALT Block. Come see excerpts from our upcoming ballet, learn the story of the little dancer, and create some artwork of our friends.
Free to the Public!
Hard Hat Tour with HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes
Join HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes for a behind-the-scenes look at the renovation process happening on the Salt Block.
Space is limited to 5 people per tour, but we will be offering the tour most Fridays! Secure your spot by submitting your RSVP at the button below.
Come see our progress!
Inside Look with Genny Garvey
Inside Look invites you to connect with local artists as they share the stories behind their work, their creative process, and what inspires them to create. Join us at HMA’s satellite location in Valley Hills Mall for engaging talks, live demos, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art-making journey. Free admission — donations always welcome!
Local artist Genny Garvey will be giving a behind-the-scenes look into her process and inspiration behind her work.
MEMBERS ONLY: (Re)HAPPENING 14 at Black Mountain College Campus at Lake Eden
$110 Members Only
Hickory Museum of Art members will have the opportunity to visit the original Black Mountain College Campus at Lake Eden for their annual day of art installations, talks, performances, food and drink. Ticket includes transportation to and from Hickory Museum of Art and entry to the event. We will update with more information as soon as we receive it closer to the date, such as schedule and artists that are participating. Don't miss out on this unique experience!
Black Mountain College Museum + Arts Center board member Jolene Mechanic developed a fundraising idea that grew into the {Re}HAPPENING, a dinner and performance event inspired by John Cage’s 1952 Theatre Piece No. 1, considered by many to be the first Happening. For the first six years, the Media Arts Project (MAP), an artist-run non-profit in Asheville, collaborated to organize and produce the event with BMCM+AC.
The {Re}HAPPENING is a one-day event at the historic campus of Black Mountain College, 20 minutes from Asheville. It is part art event, part fundraiser, and part community instigator, providing a platform for contemporary artists to share their responses to the vital legacy of Black Mountain College by activating the buildings and grounds of the BMC campus with installations, new media, music, and performance projects.
The annual event which takes place at what is now Camp Rockmont, provides a forum for regional and national artists and an accessible, immersive, educational experience for attendees.
Learn More: https://www.blackmountaincollege.org/press-release-rehappening-14/
Artist Lineup Page: https://www.blackmountaincollege.org/rehappening/2026-artists/
Video Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1167840336
Think Like An Artist
Think Like an Artist is a free weekly program at the HMA Satellite at Valley Hills Mall that explores how artists approach creativity. Led by artist and HMA staff member Jim Wojtowicz, each session includes a focused look at how artists see and solve problems, followed by an open Q&A. Whether you’re a working artist looking for new ideas or simply curious about how creativity works, you’ll walk away with practical insights you can use in your own work and daily life.
The ART Table Lunch Break
Hickory Museum of Art would like to invite you to join us every Wednesday at 11:30 AM for lunch and an informal conversation with artist Jim Wojtowicz about art, creativity, and more at HMA’s On the Go satellite location at Valley Hills Mall. Whether you're an artist or not, Jim's engaging and informative approach fosters a relaxed environment where participants discover new ideas and perspectives about art and creativity.
Stop by the food court or bring a packed lunch from home and join us at The ART Table to enjoy this FREE midweek break from routine that's filled with inspiration and creativity. We look forward to seeing you there!
Coffee In The Coe: Art + Exhibitions Round-table Discussion with Clarissa
Join us for a round table discussion on HMA's exhibitions and latest news in the art world. Admission is free!
guildHMA Volunteer Meeting
HMA Satellite Location, Valley Hills Mall
Social | 11:30 AM
Meeting | 12:00-1 PM
guildHMA is the volunteer arm of Hickory Museum of Art. Museum volunteers are invited to attend monthly meetings and volunteer as able on committees and at events. Monthly meetings are held through the year to discuss how we can work together to support the museum, to enjoy interesting art-related programs, and to fellowship.
Originally founded in 1970, guild volunteers have played a huge role in making the museum the successful organization it is today. Volunteers assist in many different departments. Opportunities include working in education, as shopHMA assistants and office volunteers, with museum fundraising events like guildHMA Gala and The Autolawn Euro Classic Car Show, and more.
If you would like to learn more about volunteering, have a passion for art, art history, or education, and want to know how to plug in, contact us at 828.327.8576, ext 201.
CANELLED: Inside Look with Heba Kirolos
Inside Look invites you to connect with local artists as they share the stories behind their work, their creative process, and what inspires them to create. Join us at HMA’s satellite location in Valley Hills Mall for engaging talks, live demos, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art-making journey. Free admission — donations always welcome!
Heba Kirolos is our latest artist on exhibition at the satellite location at the Valley Hills Mall and will be sharing her inspiration and process behind the work.
Hard Hat Tour with HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes
Join HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes for a behind-the-scenes look at the renovation process happening on the Salt Block.
Space is limited to 5 people per tour, but we will be offering the tour most Fridays! Secure your spot by submitting your RSVP at the button below.
Come see our progress!
Coffee In The Coe: Art + Exhibitions Round-table Discussion with Clarissa
Join us for a round table discussion on HMA's exhibitions and latest news in the art world. Admission is free!
Think Like An Artist
Think Like an Artist is a free weekly program at the HMA Satellite at Valley Hills Mall that explores how artists approach creativity. Led by artist and HMA staff member Jim Wojtowicz, each session includes a focused look at how artists see and solve problems, followed by an open Q&A. Whether you’re a working artist looking for new ideas or simply curious about how creativity works, you’ll walk away with practical insights you can use in your own work and daily life.
Member/Guest Mingle
HMA is On-the-Go and this time we are popping up at our Member Partner, Barley Market, in downtown Hickory for a happy hour and entertainment by Education Manager, Karla Starnes and Friends! Members receive 15% off their total bill if they show their HMA membership card. So bring a friend and show them how awesome it is to be part of the Hickory Museum of Art community!
Think Like An Artist
Think Like an Artist is a free weekly program at the HMA Satellite at Valley Hills Mall that explores how artists approach creativity. Led by artist and HMA staff member Jim Wojtowicz, each session includes a focused look at how artists see and solve problems, followed by an open Q&A. Whether you’re a working artist looking for new ideas or simply curious about how creativity works, you’ll walk away with practical insights you can use in your own work and daily life.
Inside Look with Katie Jensen, CCC & TI
Inside Look invites you to connect with local artists as they share the stories behind their work, their creative process, and what inspires them to create. Join us at HMA’s satellite location in Valley Hills Mall for engaging talks, live demos, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art-making journey. Free admission — donations always welcome!
Inside Look invites you to connect with local artists as they share the stories behind their work, their creative process, and what inspires them to create or teach. Join us at HMA’s satellite location in Valley Hills Mall for engaging talks, live demos, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art-making journey. Free admission — donations always welcome!
Katie Jensen is an instructor at CCC&TI in Painting and Drawing.
Hard Hat Tour with HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes
Join HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes for a behind-the-scenes look at the renovation process happening on the Salt Block.
Space is limited to 5 people per tour, but we will be offering the tour most Fridays! Secure your spot by submitting your RSVP at the button below.
Come see our progress!
Window Walks: Exploring the Art of Retail
Join Hickory Museum of Art and artist Jim Wojtowicz for an engaging and informative guided tour of the store display windows at Valley Hills Mall in Hickory. On this 30 minute conversational walking tour, Jim will share insights on key concepts such as composition, color theory, lighting, and the art of storytelling in visual merchandising. You’ll gain understanding into how expertly crafted displays attract attention, evoke emotions, and enhance consumer engagement. Whether you're an aspiring designer, a business owner, or simply curious about the art of retail, this tour promises to be both educational and enjoyable!
Coffee In The Coe: Art + Exhibitions Round-table Discussion with Clarissa
Join us for a round table discussion on HMA's exhibitions and latest news in the art world. Admission is free!
The ART Table Lunch Break
Hickory Museum of Art would like to invite you to join us every Wednesday at 11:30 AM for lunch and an informal conversation with artist Jim Wojtowicz about art, creativity, and more at HMA’s On the Go satellite location at Valley Hills Mall. Whether you're an artist or not, Jim's engaging and informative approach fosters a relaxed environment where participants discover new ideas and perspectives about art and creativity.
Stop by the food court or bring a packed lunch from home and join us at The ART Table to enjoy this FREE midweek break from routine that's filled with inspiration and creativity. We look forward to seeing you there!
2026 Juneteenth Celebration T-Shirt Call to Artists
Artists, designers, and community members are invited to Hickory Museum of Art's satellite location at Valley Hills Mall on March 20th - 22nd, to create original artwork for our Juneteenth Celebration T-Shirt Design Contest. The winning design will be featured on the official Juneteenth event T-shirt and showcased during the community event this summer.
Winner will be decided through People's Choice!
2026 Juneteenth Celebration T-Shirt Call to Artists
Artists, designers, and community members are invited to Hickory Museum of Art's satellite location at Valley Hills Mall on March 20th - 22nd, to create original artwork for our Juneteenth Celebration T-Shirt Design Contest. The winning design will be featured on the official Juneteenth event T-shirt and showcased during the community event this summer.
Winner will be decided through People's Choice!
2026 Juneteenth Celebration T-Shirt Call to Artists
Artists, designers, and community members are invited to Hickory Museum of Art's satellite location at Valley Hills Mall on March 20th -22nd, to create original artwork for our Juneteenth Celebration T-Shirt Design Contest. The winning design will be featured on the official Juneteenth event T-shirt and showcased during the community event this summer.
Winner will be decided through People's Choice!
Inside Look with Thomas Thielemann, CCC & TI
Inside Look invites you to connect with local artists as they share the stories behind their work, their creative process, and what inspires them to create. Join us at HMA’s satellite location in Valley Hills Mall for engaging talks, live demos, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art-making journey. Free admission — donations always welcome!
"Thomas Thielemann, the AFA Visual Arts Director at Caldwell Community College and Technical institute, is an award winning multi-media artist. Thomas’ work combines a variety of disciplines including printmaking, graphic arts, collage, and painting. His work is represented by several galleries throughout the Southeast and in Washington DC. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Georgia Southern University and a Master of Fine Arts degree from Radford University.
Thomas teaches Printmaking, Computer Art, Drawing, Painting, Sculpture, Design I and II, and Art Appreciation. His focus in the classroom is on craftsmanship, methods, demonstrations, and design principles. He is a dedicated teacher, believing that true education can never exist without visual discovery and appreciation. His work can be seen at www.moonheadstudio.com."
Hard Hat Tour with HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes
Join HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes for a behind-the-scenes look at the renovation process happening on the Salt Block.
Space is limited to 5 people per tour, but we will be offering the tour most Fridays! Secure your spot by submitting your RSVP at the button below.
Come see our progress!
Window Walks: Exploring the Art of Retail
Join Hickory Museum of Art and artist Jim Wojtowicz for an engaging and informative guided tour of the store display windows at Valley Hills Mall in Hickory. On this 30 minute conversational walking tour, Jim will share insights on key concepts such as composition, color theory, lighting, and the art of storytelling in visual merchandising. You’ll gain understanding into how expertly crafted displays attract attention, evoke emotions, and enhance consumer engagement. Whether you're an aspiring designer, a business owner, or simply curious about the art of retail, this tour promises to be both educational and enjoyable!
2026 Juneteenth Celebration T-Shirt Call to Artists
Artists, designers, and community members are invited to Hickory Museum of Art's satellite location at Valley Hills Mall on March 20th -22nd, to create original artwork for our Juneteenth Celebration T-Shirt Design Contest. The winning design will be featured on the official Juneteenth event T-shirt and showcased during the community event this summer.
Winner will be decided through People's Choice!
Tai Chi with Rick Berry: Continuing Class
Give Tai-Chi a try for your health and well-being! The ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi uses gentle flowing movements to reduce the stress of today’s busy lifestyles and improve health & vitality. Rick Berry is a certified Tai Chi instructor who teaches with great clarity and patience. Improve your balance, strength and agility in the ambience of beautiful original art.
$100; $70 Members
To register, contact Karla Starnes at 828-327-8576, ext 207 or kstarnes@hickoryart.org.
Tai Chi with Rick Berry: Introductory Class
Give Tai-Chi a try for your health and well-being! The ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi uses gentle flowing movements to reduce the stress of today’s busy lifestyles and improve health & vitality. Rick Berry is a certified Tai Chi instructor who teaches with great clarity and patience. Improve your balance, strength and agility in the ambience of beautiful original art.
$100; $70 Members
To register, contact Karla Starnes at kstarnes@hickoryart.org.
The ART Table Lunch Break
Hickory Museum of Art would like to invite you to join us every Wednesday at 11:30 AM for lunch and an informal conversation with artist Jim Wojtowicz about art, creativity, and more at HMA’s On the Go satellite location at Valley Hills Mall. Whether you're an artist or not, Jim's engaging and informative approach fosters a relaxed environment where participants discover new ideas and perspectives about art and creativity.
Stop by the food court or bring a packed lunch from home and join us at The ART Table to enjoy this FREE midweek break from routine that's filled with inspiration and creativity. We look forward to seeing you there!
Inside Look with Laura Aultman, CCC & TI
Inside Look invites you to connect with local artists as they share the stories behind their work, their creative process, and what inspires them to create. Join us at HMA’s satellite location in Valley Hills Mall for engaging talks, live demos, and a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the art-making journey. Free admission — donations always welcome!
"Laura Aultman received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina at Asheville in 2003, concentrating in the ceramic arts. During her undergraduate career, she was a studio assistant for raku artist Steven Forbes-de Soule, who resides in Weaverville, North Carolina. During that time she also received a research grant, which enabled her to complete an extensive undergraduate research project that focused on the crystal growth of zinc-silicate crystalline glazes. In 2003, Aultman presented her crystalline research findings at the National Conference of Undergraduate Research in Salt Lake City, Utah. After receiving her undergraduate degree, she was accepted into the graduate ceramic program at the University of Florida, Gainesville, under the tutelage of Linda Arbuckle and Nan Smith. She received her Master of Fine Arts in May 2006; and returned to University of North Carolina at Asheville where she taught ceramics as an academic scholarly leave replacement.
Ms. Aultman has been an art instructor for Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, teaching at the Watauga and Caldwell campuses, since 2008. She teaches Ceramics I and II, Design I and II, Sculpture I and II, Art History Survey I & II, and Art Appreciation.
Her ceramic work has been shown in art shows throughout the southeastern United States and has been published in Crystalline Glazes 2nd ed. by Diane Creber, 500 Plates and Chargers and 500 Prints on Clay by Lark Books."
Hard Hat Tour with HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes
Join HMA Executive Director Clarissa Starnes for a behind-the-scenes look at the renovation process happening on the Salt Block.
Space is limited to 5 people per tour, but we will be offering the tour most Fridays! Secure your spot by submitting your RSVP at the button below.
Come see our progress!
Window Walks: Exploring the Art of Retail
Join Hickory Museum of Art and artist Jim Wojtowicz for an engaging and informative guided tour of the store display windows at Valley Hills Mall in Hickory. On this 30 minute conversational walking tour, Jim will share insights on key concepts such as composition, color theory, lighting, and the art of storytelling in visual merchandising. You’ll gain understanding into how expertly crafted displays attract attention, evoke emotions, and enhance consumer engagement. Whether you're an aspiring designer, a business owner, or simply curious about the art of retail, this tour promises to be both educational and enjoyable!
Coffee In The Coe: Art + Exhibitions Round-table Discussion with Clarissa
Join us for a round table discussion on HMA's exhibitions and latest news in the art world. Admission is free!
Tai Chi with Rick Berry: Continuing Class
Give Tai-Chi a try for your health and well-being! The ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi uses gentle flowing movements to reduce the stress of today’s busy lifestyles and improve health & vitality. Rick Berry is a certified Tai Chi instructor who teaches with great clarity and patience. Improve your balance, strength and agility in the ambience of beautiful original art.
$100; $70 Members
To register, contact Karla Starnes at 828-327-8576, ext 207 or kstarnes@hickoryart.org.
Tai Chi with Rick Berry: Introductory Class
Give Tai-Chi a try for your health and well-being! The ancient Chinese art of Tai Chi uses gentle flowing movements to reduce the stress of today’s busy lifestyles and improve health & vitality. Rick Berry is a certified Tai Chi instructor who teaches with great clarity and patience. Improve your balance, strength and agility in the ambience of beautiful original art.
$100; $70 Members
To register, contact Karla Starnes at kstarnes@hickoryart.org.
The ART Table Lunch Break
Hickory Museum of Art would like to invite you to join us every Wednesday at 11:30 AM for lunch and an informal conversation with artist Jim Wojtowicz about art, creativity, and more at HMA’s On the Go satellite location at Valley Hills Mall. Whether you're an artist or not, Jim's engaging and informative approach fosters a relaxed environment where participants discover new ideas and perspectives about art and creativity.
Stop by the food court or bring a packed lunch from home and join us at The ART Table to enjoy this FREE midweek break from routine that's filled with inspiration and creativity. We look forward to seeing you there!