BSSS Closure

Dear Members and Donors,

It is with both gratitude and sadness that we announce the upcoming closure of Beverley Street Studio School (BSSS), effective December 12, 2025. For 33 remarkable years, our school has served as a vibrant hub for creativity, learning, and artistic community.

Since its founding in 1992, BSSS has flourished thanks to the steadfast support and enthusiasm of our members and donors. Together, we have nurtured an atmosphere where artists from diverse backgrounds could find inspiration, grow their talents, and form lasting friendships. Your involvement—whether through membership, contributions, volunteering, or participation in our classes and workshops—has been essential to our success.

This decision comes after careful consideration, honoring the legacy and spirit of the school. We take pride in knowing that many professional artists began their journeys at BSSS, finding their path through our programs. The true legacy of Beverley Street Studio School resides in the creativity, confidence, and sense of community that will continue long after our doors close.

Despite its successes and legacy, BSSS faced many challenges leading up to its closure. Like many small arts organizations, it relied heavily on volunteers and funding in the way of tuition, grants, memberships and donations. Rising costs for school operations, increased competition, decreased funding and a shrinking pool of volunteer labor exacerbated the school’s ongoing financial shortfall.

What will the next several months look like? Fall classes, workshops and Open Sessions will continue as scheduled. We will publicize the offerings with the same professional commitment to maximize enrollment. As a 501 C 3 organization, the school’s assets will be distributed to other nonprofits at a later point in time. A Frequent Q & A page will be available on the website to answer questions you may have. Also, attached is the press release to be sent out September 9, 2025, to the public. The Instructors have received a separate announcement via email.

Thank you, sincerely, for your trust, support, and devotion to the school over the years. BSSS has been enriched by your presence, and our legacy has been illuminated by your generosity.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Dana E. Quillen

Board President, Beverley Street Studio School

CLOSURE FAQs

Will Fall Classes, Workshops and Open Sessions still be held?

  • Yes, all offerings will be held this fall. There is still time to sign up for Classes, Workshops    and Open Sessions.

Will Fall Classes, When will the last Open Session be offered?

  • The last Open Session will be held December 2025 before the school closes on December 12, 2025.

What will happen to the school’s building?

  • BSSS rents the studio and office space.

What will happen to the school’s assets?

  • BSSS is a 501 C 3 organization. The board is required to disperse financial assets to other 501 C 3 organizations. This dispensation will be determined in 2026 by the BSSS board.

What about the school’s art collection?

  • An event is being planned for November 11, 2025, to auction off the school’s paintings.

How will I get in touch with the school after its closure?

Where can I take art classes after the school closes?

  • There are several options in the area to choose from:
    • Staunton Augusta Art Center – Staunton
    • Shenandoah Valley Art Center – Waynesboro
    • McGuffey Art Center – Charlottesville

What will happen to the Beverley Street Studio School Gallery?

  • At the point in time, the gallery will remain open until end of February 2026 under the support of the Beverley Street Studio School.