Perhaps the time to stop by here is during SPARKcon when presumably everyone will have their best…read moreon display. It kills me to give this place a low rating since anyone who can do what I cannot -- create art -- deserves all the kudos she or he can get. VAE was disappointing. The venue itself is perfect, well organized, good lighting, and with the art thoughtfully displayed. With the exception of the oil paintings of birds on wood, with the corresponding feathers in jars below; the crayon bunches spelling vandal; and the clay slab with hammerheads embedded within, there was really very little else that captured attention in such a way to make you feel the emotion of what the artist was attempting to capture. Still, I freely admit what was displayed showed a talent beyond anything I could do, but I cannot give this a higher rating without minimizing the other incredible art available in other galleries in the area. Timing is everything, and maybe my timing was off. I'll try again another day and perhaps then be able to change my rating upward.

I really enjoy stopping by the VAE (Visual Art Exchange), although I admit, I usually go by during…read moreRaleigh's First Friday Art Walks. I really enjoy that VAE changes their exhibits, sometimes by extreme measures, with the different artists they bring in. The large space is divided partially by a wall and they also have an area in the back called "The Cube" that always features one exhibit. The artist that ends up in the cube is usually a little more "modern" then those in the larger space. I've seen a whole variety of works, everything from puppets to hanging pieces of brush to animated short films, the list goes on. I love that VAE rotates their galleries monthly and is always bringing in a variety of artists. I've seen a lot of photography, mixed media and oils, it's definitely always unique, beautiful and covers a spectrum of work. I truly think that each gallery change provides something for everyone, but even if you aren't a fan of the work one month, I HIGHLY encourage you to return and give it another try the next month. The works of art are usually all for sale, plus they'll sometimes have local pop-up shops in the gallery. Their website is a wonderful source too for all things happening. Plus, if you go early enough on First Friday, they'll have wine and sparkling juices, a nice treat to sip on while you enjoy the gallery. VAE also helps put on PBaRt every year, a once a year event that benefits Raleigh's SparkCON. Unfortunately, if you're reading this review and it's current, you JUST missed it (it was last weekend!) But definitely put it on your agenda for next year, it is a AWESOME event! VAE is definitely more of a "traditional" art gallery then DesignBox next door [not that the pieces are always tradition]. If you're looking for more artistic ideas and gadgets, I encourage you to check out the studio next door!

New to Fuquay Varina, this gallery was so refreshing to the soul. Framed Original paintings and…read moresculptures and pottery that is so beautiful from local and afar. Framed Giclee prints that look like originals. Wildlife that is so beautifully painted and so much more! Rooms full! Rick, the owner is friendly and shared about the artists and their work. Great place to shop art for your home !

Really excellent art gallery! Many original pieces covering a wide range of artists (ALL are super…read moretalented) and styles. There is also a large collection of very nice, framed giclee prints, if your budget doesn't stretch for an original. The owner, Rick, is very nice and helpful. A complete jewell of a gallery! I have been looking at art galleries in downtown Raleigh, trying to buy a few original pieces, and have been incredibly frustrated. This one is so much better than anything else I've seen! Yes, I did buy some original art!

It is time to update my review after so many years. AR Workshop is still located in the same spot…read morein Wakefield. What has changed is that they now offer even more variety in workshops. They still have all the original workshops but have expanded the options to add candles, blankets, sourdough bread, cookie decorating, canvas to cornhole boards. Some of the classes are for adults and others are for children. It is easy to register on the website. The hard part is selecting your project and design. The staff is friendly and will offer as much help as you need. There is even a gift shop in the front with décor, kits to do projects at home or finished projects if you prefer they make it for you.

I just loved this place! I was here for a hotel event and it was amazing! My project turned out…read morebeautifully and even thought it's a hike, I would definitely go back again. And just a huge note, Abby's customer service and art skills were unmatched! She's an excellent employee and a wonderful person!

It's a 2 star rating but it depends on your opinions. When we got there we had to wait for the…read moreworker to set up everything, she did not do this before hand. None of the tables were set up and we didn't even come in the morning. They didn't have much of a color choice or pottery selection. The brushes were really old, the bristles falling off and bent in every direction. You can't paint with frayed bristles. There were no large brushes, just really small ones. Everything there was really expensive too. $20 for a small piece. It wasn't even detailed. The chairs were ripped up and looked like a dog's 10 year old chew toy. They barely gave us any water to wash our brushes and no towel or sponge to get them dry.

I haven't actually been then yet, but I asked a question on their website and they were very prompt…read morein returning my email with an answer and helpful information.

I am so happy we have a place like this in our community! I…read morehave been tremendously impressed with the owner, who goes the extra mile for her clientele. It has a totally relaxed feel and offers all kinds of different art classes. Small kids, high school kids and senior citizen kids all. If you are an art lover or want to try out your skills on the pottery wheel or painting canvas, try it out.

Great atmosphere, nice artwork and gifts. Saw an art show here and it went well for the artistread more

We had such an amazing experience. Huge shout out to Lexi who helped us out today! My child and I…read morehad such a fun and exciting experience hunting for shark teeth and other marine fossils! What a fabulous experience. Highly recommend! We will be back next time we are in the area! Thank you for making our trip!

Incredible selection I had to stop myself from spending more money. Definitely will come back again.read more

I've taken two different classes here over the last year and a half. The timeline of the two…read moreclasses displayed the growth of their business and professionalism. They are growing and finding their way in creating a beautiful and functional studio space for our community, and I'm here for it. I'm now a member of the pottery studio, and have learned so much. They're always friendly and helpful. If there's ever something I've needed or wondered about, they haven't treated me like I'm an inconvenience. The membership is extremely reasonable as well. I will be a member as long as I'm able to!

I took two pottery classes with Laura - both amazing! She is patient and thorough in her…read moreinstruction. Hope to go back again for more classes

I love this place! The store has so many beautiful, curated pieces. If you're looking for something…read morespecial for a gift or for your own home, look no farther! Their gorgeous pieces are unique and high quality. They also offer a variety of wonderful classes at the store. I attended a 3 series Mah Jongg beginner class and it was fabulous. The schedule on their website is full of wonderful learning opportunities, from cooking classes, to wine tastings, to art, and more. I can't wait to go back!

Took the Mah Jongg beginner session. It was fantastic. Dana Lange did a great job of Teaching how…read moreto play. There were 24 people in the class. After the class I was able to play with with other group right away. The wine and snacks served during the lessons were wonderful! I love the store and will look into a cooking class next. I have heard great things!