LAC Newsletter July 2, 2026

Hello Members

HAPPY 4TH of JULY!

We would like to wish everyone a very Happy Fourth of July. This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate our country’s 250th birthday, and we hope everyone enjoys a safe and joyful holiday with family and friends. The LAC will be closed this Saturday in honor of the celebration, but we will be open during our regular hours on Sunday July 5th.

This Thursday and Sunday will be the final days to see the much loved Christina Lockard Gallery Show, as it comes down after we close for the day on Sunday. Don’t miss your last chances to experience this wonderful show.

We have it on good authority that Christina may be seen roaming the halls at the LAC, and while this may be the last chance to view this exhibit, it is certainly not the last time we will be seeing her. She is a welcome addition to our membership family.

We are pleased to host the Central and South Ohio chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators for a special summer showcase celebrating the art and stories that spark young imaginations. This exhibit will be on display at the London Arts Center from July 18 through 26, with an opening reception on Saturday, July 18 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM.

We are looking forward to the return of our popular 6×6 Member Gallery Show, running Aug. 1 to 30. Members, please stop in to receive your one free 6×6 canvas. You may submit up to five pieces in any medium, including painting, drawing, photography, assemblage, sculpture, or something uniquely your own, as long as it fits within the 6×6 format.

Acrylic Painting Class for Beginners

– Join Bob Carl! –

Ready to get creative and have some fun?

Bob Carl, a graduate of Ohio University’s School of Art and The Ohio State University, is bringing his beginner acrylic painting classes to the London Arts Center at 121 East First Street.

With more than 35 years of teaching experience and a lifelong love of art, Bob offers a relaxed and encouraging space where beginners can explore, learn, and enjoy the process of painting.

Class Dates  

Thursdays, July 9

Class Time  

6:00 to 8:00 PM

Ages  

16 and up

Fee  

$19, plus $6 if you need supplies

Bring snacks, drinks, and a friend, and get ready for an enjoyable evening of creativity. Each class will begin with several composition ideas, and the group will vote on the one everyone wants to paint. It is a laid-back, no-pressure class that is perfect for anyone looking to try something new, unwind, and make art in a supportive setting.

Register today:

Text: (843) 635-1902

eMail: carltoonz@yahoo.com

Don’t miss your chance to paint, relax, and be part of the fun. 

Sign up now and save your seat.

SCWBI Gallery Show

The London Arts Center is pleased to host the Central and South Ohio chapter of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) for a special summer showcase celebrating the art and stories that ignite young imaginations.

SCBWI is the leading organization for creators of children’s books, bringing together writers, illustrators, translators, librarians, publishers, and other professionals who champion imaginative, inclusive literature. This regional show features work by members of Central and South Ohio SCBWI and will be on display at the London Arts Center,  from July 18 to 26.

Join us for the opening reception on Saturday, July 18 from 4:00 to 6:00 PM for light refreshments and a first look at the exhibition. Visitors and reception attendees will be invited to vote for their favorites in two categories: Illustration and Writing. First, second, and third place winners will receive prizes from SCBWI.

This is a wonderful chance to meet local children’s book creators, see original artwork and stories, and support the next generation of imaginative voices. We hope to see you there!

6×6 Member Gallery Show

We’re excited to bring back our popular 6×6 Member Show this August, running Aug. 1 to 30.

Members, please stop in to receive your one free 6×6 canvas. 

You may submit up to five pieces, and your artwork can be in any medium such as painting, drawing, photography, assemblage, sculpture, or something uniquely your own, as long as it fits within the 6×6 format.

This show was a big favorite with members last time, and we can’t wait to see the creativity you bring this year. The opening reception will be announced soon and more information will be shared.

New Classes

Zart Art Classes for Youth

Our Tuesday classes are on Summer Break and will return to the LAC in September. Watch for announcements. There are other Youth classes available at the LAC to maintain your Art Education Journey. 

Class Times:

Ages 10 – 13 Time: 3:30 – 4:30

Ages 6 – 9 Time: 4:30 – 5:30

The signup deadline is 3 days before class begins

Fee: $40 for the 4 one-hour classes, $10 for each session

It includes all supplies; pay when you arrive.

Projects often overlap, so it is essential to attend all four 4classes.

Contact: Mrs.Colleen Van Steen 

Text: (937) 654 -6618

Email: greenestones@aol.com

Parking & entrance are located in the back of the class.

Zart is our mascot who loves to create and inspire!

Join the fun!

You do not have to stay with your child during class, but you certainly may if you like.

You may also enjoy other areas in the building, including the gallery and gift shop.

Seeking Teachers & Artists

for 2026 Classes and Demos

The London Arts Center is looking for passionate teachers and artists to lead classes and demonstrations in 2026. Share your skills, inspire others to learn and grow, and explore your talent in fresh, exciting ways.

Email webmaster@londonvisualartsguild.org

or visit the London Arts Center for more details. Join us in fostering creativity in our community!

LVAG Calendar of Shows: 2026 

Current Gallery Show:

June 4 – July 5 Christina Lockard

Upcoming Gallery Shows:

July 17-26 SCBWI Illustrators of Central Ohio

Opening Reception on Saturday, July 18, 4:00 – 6:00 PM

Aug. 1-30 6×6 MEMBER’S SHOW

Opening reception to be announced

Sept. 3 – Sept. 27 Francis Trick Poured Paint

Opening reception to be announced

Oct. 1 – Nov. 1 Carolyn Prince – Abstract Collage & Lori Davie – Mandala Paintings.

Opening reception to be announced

Nov.5 – Nov 29 CLASS PARTICIPATION all media

Opening reception Sat. Nov. 7 from 2 pm to 4 pm. 

Dec 5 – Dec 27 Members Memorial Exhibition

We love posting photos of our classes and posting on Facebook. Please let us know if this is a problem.

Regular Meetings:

Writers and Illustrators Meeting:

EXERCISE YOUR WRITES

Join us for lively discussions on writing, poetry, and illustration. Share your work in a friendly roundtable setting and explore our monthly creative prompts—use them to craft a short story (around 1,000 words), poem, or illustration in any style or genre.

Participants are invited to use this month’s prompt words, Rendezvous and Speedometer, to create a short story of around 1,000 words, a poem, or an illustration in any style or genre.

Meeting: 3rd Thursday of each month, 6:00–8:00 p.m.
We look forward to seeing you there!

Coffee and Conversation:

Take a midweek break and enjoy an afternoon of friendly discussion about art, quilting, and other creative passions. This daytime gathering is the perfect chance to connect.

Meeting: 4th Wednesday of each month, 1:30–3:30 p.m.

LAC Board Meeting:

The London  Arts Center Board meets monthly to plan events and activities that support our creative community.

Meeting: 4th Tuesday of each month, 6:00 p.m.

General Information

Youth Classes

Zart: Fun, creative, hands-on classes designed to build artistic skills and appreciation. It’s perfect for youth and homeschool students alike.

Open Studio

Join us every Tuesday from 4–7 p.m. at the LVAG London Arts Center. Bring your current project or start something new while connecting with fellow artists.

Open to members and the public.

Memberships

Memberships:
Your membership helps keep our classes and workshops affordable.
For just $25/year ($50 for families)—less than a cup of coffee a month—you’ll support local art and enjoy the fun of being part of our creative community.

Memberships also make great gifts for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion.

Payment Options:

Mail a check to:
The London Arts Center
PO Box 362, London, OH 43140

Or pay in cash at any event or open day.

Regular Hours:

Thursday 11 -2 pm, Saturday 10 – 2 pm

Sunday 11 – 2 pm

www.londonartscenter.org 

London Arts Center

PO Box 362 

121 East First Street 

London, OH 43140