Virginia Art Factory

"Rhythm & Hues" Rene Dickerson Exhibit
2025-11-12 10:00 - 2025-12-14 17:00 UTC | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
“Rhythm & Hues” by René DickersonNovember 12 – December 14, 2025Artist Reception: Saturday, November 15, 6-8 PM
The ARTfactory proudly announces a special exhibition featuring the celebrated artist René Dickerson, whose visionary works bridge the worlds of fine art, jazz, and Motown. The exhibition, titled “Rhythm & Hues”, will open on November 12 and run through December 14 at the ARTfactory. An Opening Artist Reception will be held on Saturday, November 15 from 6-8 PM.
Born in Oakland, California, Dickerson’s creative journey began early—his father, inspired by surrealist René Magritte, named him after the Belgian master. A self-taught artist, Dickerson gained early recognition at the Alameda County Fair, where he earned multiple awards before launching a successful career in both military and commercial design. His signature style blends cubism, surrealism, and vibrant emotional realism, reflecting a lifetime dedicated to artistic innovation.
By the 1990s, Dickerson was exhibiting at the prestigious Union Square Gallery in San Francisco, where his works caught the attention of Otis Williams of The Temptations. Williams became a collector and lifelong supporter, introducing Dickerson’s art to luminaries such as Berry Gordy and Oprah Winfrey. Their creative friendship later led to a licensing agreement for limited-edition “My Girl” prints, honoring the Motown classic.
Now based in the Historic Manassas area, Dickerson continues to evolve his craft through his unique “Linear Art” style—an expressive fusion of line, motion, and form. His new series celebrates the energy of jazz, soul, and pop culture, inspired by his ongoing collaborations with the Jazz Legacy Foundation (nine years) and the Ocean City Jazz Festival in Topsail, North Carolina.
The upcoming exhibition will feature both new Linear Art works and select pieces from Dickerson’s acclaimed Motown collection, including his celebrated “My Girl” series created in tribute to Smokey Robinson and The Temptations.Exhibition Details:Exhibit Title: Rhythm & HuesDates: November 12 – December 14, 2025Location: ARTfactory, 9419 Battle St, Manassas, VA 20110Artist Reception: Saturday, November 15, 6-8 PM (RSVP here)

Contact ARTfactory, Gallery Director: Jordan Exum | jexum@VirginiaARTfactory.org 9419 Battle St, Manassas, VA 20110 | 703-330-2787 Gallery Hours: Tuesday-Saturday (10 am-5 pm), Sunday (12-5 pm) VirginiaARTfactory.org

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer
2025-11-21 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | VA

Closed for Thanksgiving
2025-11-27 - 2025-11-28 | VA
ARTfactory will be closed November 27th & 28th for the Thanksgiving Holiday. We will reopen on Saturday, November 29th for regular business hours, 10AM-5PM.

The Craft of Painting on Walls: A Mural Workshop
2025-11-29 13:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Join us for a free one day seminar which will explore the history, relevance and techniques of painting Murals. Hosted by Caesar, a professional artist based in Northern VA who has been painting on walls of all shapes and sizes for over 30 years. A student of the craft, Caesar’s artistic career is rooted in the culture of graffiti. Well known for his signature style and mastery of letters, this seminar will encompass various methods and approaches one may encounter while painting on walls.
Looking at mural painting through the lens of art history, there will be discussion of how different cultures have used this art form to enrich their own respective societies. From ancient Egypt, to the masters of the Renaissance, all the way up to modern day sign painters and street artists; mankind has been adorning the walls around them since the dawn of time.
This course will touch on the significant movements and developments of mural painting, as artists have strived to hone their skill sets, learning how to create the massive masterpieces that dot the landscapes of cities all over the world. No experience necessary, no materials needed.
If you have an interest in art history, or you are an aspiring muralist hoping to up their game, this will be a great way to spend the afternoon.
Saturday, November 29th
1-4 pm
Free Event!

Ornagami: Folded Christmas Decorations
2025-12-04 15:00 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Use the ancient Japanese art of paper folding to create beautiful and unique ornaments, suitable for gifts or decorating for the holidays.
Participants will learn unique designs, and will make figures and designs from the holiday season come to life!
Students who register before 12/3 and you will get a voucher for free popcorn at the Christmas Market December 5th and 6th!
All materials will be provided.
Ages 15+
Thursdays 3-4:30 pm
December 4th and December 11th
Class fee: $57

Christmas Market Spectacular
2025-12-05 17:00 - 21:00 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Come do some holiday shopping at our Christmas Market Spectacular! Find all sorts of goods from local vendors and artists that the whole family will love!

Chair Yoga Class
2025-12-06 12:00 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | City of Manassas Community Center, 8750 Sudley Rd, Manassas, 20110, United States
Times are tough and personal wellness is more important than ever! Join instructor Dana Wright as she leads you through a Chair Yoga class to help you get more in touch with your body. She will use calming music to help forget your troubles and stretch yourself into a state of bliss.
Please note this class takes place at the City of Manassas Community Center!
Saturday, December 6th
12-1 pm
FREE CLASS!

Watercolor Ornaments
2025-12-12 13:00 - 16:00 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Join artist Michele Frantz for a intensive workshop on making your own holiday ornaments with watercolors!
Reference images will be provided, or bring your own.
For all skill levels. Bring your regular watercolor supplies (click here for a list of supplies); paper and other materials will be provided by the instructor.
Students who register before 12/4 will receive a voucher for free popcorn for the Christmas Market 12/5 and 12/6!
For ages 15 & up.
Friday, December 12th
1-4 pm
Tuition: $57 Supply Fee: $5

Land of Forgotten Toys: A Christmas Musical
2025-12-12 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
The Land of Forgotten Toys: A Christmas Musical is a heartwarming holiday adventure for the whole family. The story follows Grace, a bright and ambitious teen who dreams of a bigger life beyond her aunt’s toy store. Just days before Christmas, Grace and her friend Nikki are whisked away to the magical Land of Forgotten Toys, where broken and discarded playthings await a second chance. When Santa is kidnapped by his wicked sister, Charlotta, it’s up to Grace, Nikki, and the quirky toys to band together, face thrilling challenges, and save Christmas. Filled with humor, fantasy, and uplifting songs, the musical celebrates courage, friendship, and the beauty of embracing who you are—even with imperfections.
The Land of Forgotten Toys: A Christmas Musical is presented by special arrangement with Broadway Licensing Global. (www.broadwaylicensing.com)

"Off the Wall" High School Exhibit
2025-12-18 10:00 - 2026-01-25 17:00 UTC | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
“Off the Wall” High School Art Exhibit & CompetitionDecember 18, 2025 – January 25, 2026Awards Ceremony: January 10, 2-4 pm (Announcements begin at 2:30 pm)This free event invites the community to enjoy the artwork, meet the student artists, and celebrate the top winners in each category. Wearable Art designs will be unveiled and judged live during the ceremony.The ARTfactory is proud to present the 22nd Annual Off the Wall High School Art Exhibit & Competition, an inspiring showcase of emerging creative talent from across the region. Each year, local high school students are invited to participate in this juried exhibition, which encourages artistic expression and creativity in a professional gallery setting.

The 2025–26 exhibit features student artwork across five categories: Art & Technology, Painting/Drawing, Poetry, Wearable Art, and Photography. Each category is professionally adjudicated.

This year’s exhibition includes artwork from more than 70 student artists representing nine county high schools, including Battlefield, Brentsville District, C.D. Hylton, Colgan, Forest Park, Gainesville, Osbourn Park, Patriot, and Woodbridge Senior High Schools.

Participating Artists:Murtaz Ahmed, Naiya Alexander, Josiah Alexander, Zoe Ampofo, Maryam Azamee, Anika Balaji, Keira Balfanz, Yan Barabash, Carmen Barrera, Lillian Grace Branco, Jacob Canales, Ava Cantarella, Giancarlo Schiano Di Cola, Shiloh Cox, David Damon, Nuvia Delgado, Emely Diaz, Lanah Doudzai, Rachel Elrod, Selman Elsiah, Andrew Gaines, Shannon Gilbert, MonaRae Glass, CJ Graham, Santiago Pariona Guillen, Maggie Hao, Sophia Celeste Hernandez, Martha Aguilar Hernandez, Arielle Hicks, Nia Jones, Jose Sebastian, Camden Kapolka, Britney Kay, Alyssa Komlos, Jasper Lee, Sophia Lerch, Hasom Lim, Jiamei Liu, Violet Ma, Myra Malati, Ayaan Mamoon, Ewan Manis, Jingyi Mao, Zoie Mays, Molly Montgomery, Sonja Mueller, Tamara Navarro, Nathan Nguyen, Vi-Anh Nguyen, Kailea North, Natalia Ortega-Rivas, Caitlin Owlett, Katherine Papadopoulos, Gaea Payne, Briana Porter, Isabela Price, Caroline Puttre, Lysha Rashid, Shermayne Reyes, Stephen Russell, Avi Rustin, Maggie Saunders, Malalai Sharifi, Ishaan Sheoran, Allison Skipper, Callista Smith, Mia Smith, Caroline Snyder, Leah Stathis, Zahila Subzwari, Ashley Teo, Sophia Thomas, Xavier Thomas, Jae Thornton, Crow Turner, Claire Vanderbrink, and Austen Yuhas

About ARTfactoryThe ARTfactory is a community arts organization dedicated to enriching the region through visual arts, performing arts, and community engagement. Through classes, exhibitions, and cultural events, ARTfactory provides accessible opportunities for creative discovery and expression.

Press Inquiries:Jordan Exum, Gallery DirectorARTfactory | Caton Merchant Gallery9419 Battle St, Manassas, VA 20110703.330.2787 | jexum@virginiaARTfactory.orghttps://virginiaartfactory.org/

Christmas Cabaret
2025-12-18 19:00 - 21:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Celebrate the magic of the season with an unforgettable evening of music, laughter, and holiday cheer! Join us for a sparkling Christmas Cabaret featuring your favorite holiday classics and hidden gems, performed by a lineup of talented local singers.
From heartwarming carols to jazzy Christmas tunes, this lively showcase will fill you with joy and put you in the holiday spirit. Gather your friends and family, sip on something warm, and enjoy the gift of live music in a cozy, festive atmosphere.
Let the voices of our community’s brightest performers make this holiday season truly shine. All proceeds benefit Actors Theatre at the ARTfactory.

Closed for the Holiday
2025-12-24 - 2025-12-26, 2025-12-29 - 2026-01-02 | VA
ARTfactory will be closed for the Holidays December 24-26 and December 29-January 2. We will reopen during normal business hours on Saturday, January 3rd. Our Gallery will be open on December 27 & 28 during normal business hours for visitors to view our Off the Wall High School Exhibit.

Intro to Theatre for Kids (5-8)
2026-01-05 16:30 - 17:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
This class is designed for younger students ages 5-8 to begin to learn the fundamentals of acting such as storytelling, creative movement, vocalization, and confidence in front of a group.
The goal of this class is for students to learn these skills in a way that is fun and enjoyable, while also creating a safe environment for students to feel like they can explore. In order to accomplish this, the class is designed with emphasis on different activities and games as opposed to a singular performance.
We will utilize familiar and classic children’s stories, such as Peter Rabbit, The Rainbow Fish, The Three Little Pigs, etc. to build on these skills. Using known stories allows the children to learn how to be creative while still offering a framework for them to follow. For example, if the story we were looking at that day was The Three Little Pigs, we might explore how to act as a pig vs wolf by changing how we move and use our voices, talk about breath support by “blowing down the houses”, and of course act out the story using all of those elements.
In addition to stories we will also play games that encourage creativity and teamwork. These help students grow an awareness of different ways they can move their bodies, as well as strengthens their listening skills. By the end of the class your youngster is guaranteed to have a new appreciation for theatre, and will be ready for more!
Mondays 4:30-5:30
January 5th – February 2nd
THERE WILL BE NO CLASS ON 1/19 DUE TO MLK JR. DAY!!
Class Fee: $76

Imagination Station: Devised Theatre for Young Adults
2026-01-05 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Marstellar Park and Community Center, 8730 Sudley Rd, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
In this class, students will bring their acting and improv skills to the next level with a new devised work!
Students will work on the Viewpoints technique and create stories based on their own lived experiences. This class will work on movement through storytelling, improvisation, and ensemble work.
This class is a great fit for actors wanting to grow to the next level, or storytelling wanting to dip in to the world of acting.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS CLASS MEETS AT THE CITY OF MANASSAS COMMUNITY CENTER!!
Mondays 5:30-7 pm
January 5th – February 16th
THERE WILL BE NO CLASS 1/19 DUE TO MLK JR. DAY!!
Class Fee: $171
Ages 13-18

Artist in Focus
2026-01-05 18:00 - 20:00 (America/New_York) | VA
Embark on a creative journey and explore the world of master artists in our “Artist in Focus” class.
Each day, you will delve into the life, techniques, and unique perspective of a single, influential artist. From the vibrant brushstrokes of Van Gogh to the surreal landscapes of Dali, you will uncover the stories behind their masterpieces and learn what makes their work so iconic.
THERE WILL BE NO CLASS JANUARY 19 DUE TO MLK JR. DAY!!
Mondays 6-8 pm
January 5th – February 2nd
Class Fee: $114

Acrylics Basics and Beyond
2026-01-06 10:30 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Join artist Michele Frantz for a 5 lesson session in acrylic painting! Versatile and forgiving, acrylic paints may be manipulated with a wide array of techniques, applied to many different surfaces, and modified with various additives.
Students new to acrylics will learn introductory basics; experienced students will improve their skills and explore new directions. Class is offered throughout the year with a different approach presented in each session. Click here for a list of supplies. Canvases and boards will be provided by the instructor.
Tuesdays 10:30-12:30
January 6th – February 3rd
For ages 15 & up.
Tuition: $190 Canvas Fee: $5

Musical Theatre for Young Actors
2026-01-06 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Baldwin Elementary School, 1978 Eagle Way, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Step into the spotlight and discover the magic of musical theatre!
In this engaging class, students will explore the three pillars of the stage—singing, acting, and dancing—through fun exercises, group numbers, and age-appropriate scenes from popular musicals. Young performers will build confidence, strengthen their stage presence, and develop foundational performance skills while working collaboratively with their peers.
Perfect for aspiring triple threats, this class encourages creativity, teamwork, and a love for the stage!
THIS CLASS WILL MEET AT BALDWIN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL IN THE ACTIVITY ROOM!!
Tuesdays 5:30-7pm
January 6th – January 30th
Tuition: $114

Mural Painting
2026-01-06 18:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
This class will offer an introduction to the history and techniques of painting murals. Taking a look at the cultural and commercial significance of murals, the various applications will be explained and demonstrated.
Over the course of this eight week intensive class, you will get hands on experience painting on ARTfactory walls! This course is designed to cater to any and all levels of skill, so beginners are not only welcome but encouraged to sign up.
All materials provided via the supplies fee.
Tuesdays 6:30-8:30
January 6th – February 24th
Class Fee: $304 Supplies Fee: $42

Scene Study for Young Actors (8-14)
2026-01-07 17:30 - 19:00 (America/New_York) | Baldwin Elementary School, 1978 Eagle Way, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
In the scene study class, actors will take specific scenes from movies, television, or plays and apply exercises and techniques to create believable characters and performances.
Actors will work with the instructor to build on foundational skills and receive feedback to improve their craft. The class will conclude with a mini presentation of scenes and/or monologues for friends and family on the last day of class.
This class will meet in the Activity Room at Baldwin Elementary School except for the last class, which will be in the Wind River Theatre at the ARTfactory!!
Wednesdays 5:30-7 pm
January 7th – January 28th
Tuition: $114

Oil Painting: Still Life
2026-01-07 18:30 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Learn to paint various still life set ups using the fundamentals of oil painting. We will start with basic shape still lifes and learn value by using just black and white paint. Then we will paint more complex subjects and learn how to work in color.
Students will learn how to mix colors, how to paint using oils, and various techniques to build layers of value and color. Supplies are provided.
Wednesdays 6:30-8:30 pm
January 7th – February 4th
Tuition: $190 Supply Fee: $20

Adventure Story Drama
2026-01-09 10:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Do you have a little that loves to live large? Come out to our brand new theatre class for kids ages 3-5!
Students will bring beloved storybooks to life through imagination and acting exploration under the fun and expert guidance of EJ Fultz. This is an introductory class, with a new story each week, so every class is guaranteed to be a fun time. Students will grow in their excitement for theatre and reading!
Parents are encouraged to attend the class with their young ones.
Ages 3-5
Fridays 10-11 am
January 9th – January 30th
Class Fee: $76 Supplies Fee: $5
Total Fee: $81

Watercolor Basics and Beyond
2026-01-09 10:30 - 12:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Explore the beautiful fluidity and transparency of watercolor. Beginners will learn basic tools and techniques. Experienced students will explore new methods, materials, and styles. This class is offered throughout the year with a different approach presented in each session. A list of supplies can be found on the Classes and Camps page, or by clicking here. Watercolor paper will be provided by the instructor.
Fridays 10:30-12:30
January 9th – February 6th
For ages 15 & up.
Tuition: $190 Supply Fee: $5

Acting Through Movement (8-12)
2026-01-09 16:30 - 17:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Being a young actor is about more than just the lines – it’s about embodying the character through movement!
This course will dive deep into character exploration, acting technique development, and storytelling through movement. Each week, students will grow their individual acting skills, as well as their capacity to work as an ensemble.
We will learn physical acting through games, activities, and workshops, analyzing characters from fiction and real life!
Ages 8-12
Fridays 4:30-5:30 pm
January 9th – January 30th
Class Fee: $76

Face it! Kid's Portraiture
2026-01-10 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Who’s ready to draw some awesome faces?
In this class, you will become a portrait artist! You will start with the basics, like learning how to draw eyes, noses, and mouths, and then you will put them all together to create incredible portraits of yourself, your friends, and even your favorite characters.
You will get to experiment with a variety of art supplies, such as pencils, paint, papers and pastels, to create a gallery of amazing faces. Come join us and learn how to capture a person’s unique look and personality in your very own artwork!
Saturdays 10 am – 12 pm
January 10th – January 31st
Class Fee: $152

"Off the Wall" Awards Ceremony
2026-01-10 14:00 - 16:00 UTC | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States

Film Screening: Prosperity Creek
2026-01-10 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Join us for a film screening of Prosperity Creek, a social satire about a young woman hired to house-sit in an affluent and mysterious DC suburb. As the plot twists and turns, she uncovers increasingly ludicrous secrets about the townspeople, culminating in a battle between humans and… others in this exciting feature film debut from Zack Walsh.
This ticketed screening is free to the public, but donations are kindly accepted at the door. Tickets are limited, click the button below to register for your seat today!
This film is recommended for ages 13 and up.

Sunday Sculpting
2026-01-11 10:00 - 12:00 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Instructor and artist, Lydia Bratton, will guide this class through the start to finish of creating art through sculpture. Sculpture requires patience, perseverance, and sometimes a mindset shift to achieve desired results.
Ms. B will stress the importance of trusting the process, making sculptors of all levels feel capable and confident in creating a piece they can be proud of. Students will plan and complete sculptures they can take home and enjoy.
Sculptures will be left to dry for a week, and students will return to paint their finished, dried product before taking their masterpiece home.
Sundays 10 am – 12 pm
January 11th – February 2nd
Tuition: $152 Supply Fee: $15

Bodies of Watercolor: Oceans, Lakes, and Creeks
2026-01-13 10:30 - 13:00 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Ever wanted to capture the beauty and vibrancy of running water on the page? Watercolors are your answer!
In this class, you will learn to blend washes and brushwork to create atmospheric skies and both moving and still water seascapes. Instructor Mike Flynn will teach you the techniques you need to bring bodies of water to life.
Click here for the Supply List – watercolor paper will be provided.
Tuesdays 10:30 am – 1 pm
January 13th – February 2nd
Class Fee: $190

Journey to Drawing: Exploring Pen and Ink
2026-01-15 15:00 - 16:30 (America/New_York) | ARTfactory, 9419 Battle Street, Manassas, VA, 20110, United States
Whether you are a beginning artist or just want to improve your skills, these classes will explore the basis of all art … drawing!
This series is designed to identify fundamental drawing skills that the participants can take and develop further on their own. Participants can take one or several sessions; each session will introduce a different aspect of drawing, such as gesture, line, shading, proportions, etc.
Pen and Ink Techniques
In this class you’ll explore hatching, cross-hatching, stippling, and other techniques that allow the artist to create beautiful, detailed drawings with a simple pen.
Supplies not included – please see the Supply List here.
Thursdays 3-4:30 pm
January 15th – February 5th
Tuition: $114
