About Us
Welcome to the Rutherford County Visual Artists Guild
We are more than an organization — we are a community of artists, crafters, and volunteers celebrating and promoting the visual arts in Rutherford County.
Join us and discover:
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A vibrant gallery showcasing local art and crafts
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A charming market featuring unique creations
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A creative studio offering classes for all ages and skill levels
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Exciting Meet the Artist events and community programs
Located in historic Rutherfordton, NC, The Guild is a hub for creativity, inspiration, and connection. We are always welcoming new members and artists to share in our mission of supporting and growing the arts in our community.
25 Years of Art, Community, and Creativity.
A 2026 Celebration!
The Rutherford County Visual Artists Guild began with a simple idea: bring people together through art. What started as a small group of local artists sharing their passion has grown into a creative home for artists, makers, and art lovers across Rutherford County.
Today, The Guild is a welcoming space where creativity is celebrated every day. Our gallery and artist market showcase the incredible talent of local artists, while our studio offers classes and creative experiences for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re here to learn, create, shop, or simply be inspired, there’s a place for you at The Guild.
At the heart of everything we do are our volunteers. The Guild is proudly volunteer-led, fueled by individuals who generously share their time, talents, and love for the arts. Artists at every stage — from beginners to seasoned professionals — come together here to connect, collaborate, and support one another.
More than just an arts organization, The Guild is a community. Together, we’re nurturing creativity, building connections, and creating opportunities for the arts to thrive in Rutherford County — now and for generations to come.
Board of Directors
leading with dedication and passion
The Guild’s volunteer board leads with passion and vision, ensuring our arts community grows and inspires.
Ready to make an impact? We welcome new members to join us!
Amanda Maishman
President
Amanda Maishman is an artist and community builder inspired by creativity, nature, and a sense of everyday magic.
As Board President, she is devoted to nurturing an inclusive, supportive guild that connects artists and art lovers while strengthening creative opportunities through shared space, collaboration, and hands-on art experiences.
Shannon Bird
Vice President
Living, working, and playing in Rutherfordton, Shannon Bird is committed to fostering a vibrant, connected community. With a background in public service, she champions programs that bring people together. She values family time, enjoys mountain adventures, and delights in exploring historic towns—always seeking ways to support and celebrate the people and culture around her.
Russell Knight
Treasurer
Russell Knight considers himself an avid consumer of the arts, but not an artist per se. Russell’s experience in grants, education and nonprofits fuels his passion for giving back to the community.
He and his partner Jim are the owners/innkeepers of the Carrier Houses Bed & Breakfast and are invested in helping Rutherford County thrive.
Pam McLeod
Secretary
Pam McLeod enjoys helping others achieve their potential, whether it be running a business or creating the perfect sour dough loaf. A lifelong learner, she spent most of her career developing training systems for organizations with 3 letter names. Retirement has given her the freedom to indulge her love of reading, pottery, hiking, and camping, all from a round house on a mountain she shares with her handyman husband and their three Siamese cats.
Kris Willing
At-Large Member
Kris Willing is deeply committed to community, creativity, and meaningful connection. With a background in education and partnership-building, she enjoys supporting initiatives that help people learn, grow, and feel seen.
Kris finds joy in creative writing, watercolor painting, gardening, and engaging with local arts and culture.
Carol Jacunski
At-Large Member
Carol Jacunski is dedicated to celebrating creativity in all of its forms by supporting contributing artists in the community. Her career in education helps her value and promote art education.
She resides in Rutherfordton and enjoys gardening, reading and attending local performances.
Willard Whitson
At-Large Member
Willard Whitson is Executive Director of KidSenses Children’s Museum. He is dedicated to community service and is a member of multiple local and county nonprofit boards and agencies. An exhibiting artist and former arts educator, Whitson has been creating educational environments and programs in museums and children’s museums for over forty years. He believes that people are naturally inquisitive; he tries to see the world through their eyes and create learning environments that foster exploration.
Our Space
The Guild’s home on Main Street in historic Rutherfordton is more than just a building — it’s a creative hub for our community. Whether you are exploring an exhibit, shopping for art, or creating your next masterpiece, The Guild’s space is designed to inspire, connect, and celebrate creativity.