Virginia State Parks seeks Virginia artisans

The Virginia State Parks system is looking for new Virginia artists and artisans to feature in the Natural Bridge State Park Artisan Center.

Entries will be juried Jan. 17 and Jan. 18. Artists must set up their work on their assigned day between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. and remove it the same day between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. Artists must register by Dec. 15.

“Since assuming management of Natural Bridge in September 2016, we’ve been dedicated to representing the culture and history of Rockbridge County and the entire region,” said Park Manager Jim Jones. “We will now be able to showcase even more outstanding Virginia artists.”

The center sells the hand-crafted work of 27 artists who exemplify Virginia and the region.

“Our goal is to offer the work of 50 to 60 of the finest Virginia artists as part of our mission to introduce our visitors to Virginia’s diverse and interesting culture,” Jones said.

To register, artists should send their name, type of artwork (medium), contact information (phone, email, mailing address) and preferred jury date to

or to P.O. Box 57, Natural Bridge, VA 24578. Space is limited, and registrations will not be accepted on the jury day.

Acceptable media include ceramic, enamel, glass, metal, leather, wood, natural and organic materials, paper and jewelry. Matted and framed art and photographs also will be considered.

Items must be handmade without the use of kits, commercial molds or manufactured primary components. Agricultural products including herbs, jams, jellies and other food products may be considered, but vendors must have a valid Virginia Health Department Inspection Certificate and on hand at the time of the jury session.

Artisans may display up to 10 items and are encouraged to bring promotional materials or brochures that describe the work.

For details or to receive an application, call (540) 291-1323.