Experiencing the arts will change your perspective.
Supporting the arts will change your life.

Friends of the Arts Fall 2025 Events

 

Art in the Air Salon

Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµCampus | Picnic Area
09/28/2025 01:00 PM

Sip and Paint with us at the Art in the Air salon on Sunday, September 28th, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM!

Originally planned for Spring 2025, this afternoon member salon is set to be a colorful kickoff to the fall season. Join us for a relaxing afternoon of "en plein air" painting led by our students in the School of Art & Design. Guests will enjoy a picnic lunch alongside fellow FOA members while learning the basics of painting landscape vistas in the open air.

Let your artistic side flourish in this immersive, hands-on experience. Whether you're an experienced painter or just looking to try something new, this is a perfect opportunity to connect with fellow art enthusiasts and support the arts at WCU! Easels, painting supplies, and lunch will be provided, but space is limited.

Limited space available | by September 19th, 2025

Pride of the Mountains Tailgate & Chili Cook-off

Ramsey Stadium | TBD
11/15/2025 11:00 AM

Back by popular demand! Our second annual FOA tailgate in support of the Pride of the Mountains Marching Band is growing bigger and bolder. This year, we’re partnering alongside the College of Education & Allied Professions with the College of Business for their beloved annual chili cook-off. Enjoy a fun, casual atmosphere with delightful snacks, swag, and activities for all: catamount temporary tattoos, lawn games, hot cider, giveaways, and a special performance from the marching band itself! This event is open to the public, but your RSVP is kindly appreciated and allows us to make sure there is enough fun for everyone. 

Open to the Public | RSVP by November 1st, 2025

Friends of the Arts Spring 2026 Events

Behind the Lens Salon

Niggli Theatre | Bardo Arts Center
03/06/2026 11:30 AM

Step Behind the Lens on Friday, March 6th from 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM with students in the School of Stage & Screen’s Film & Television Program to experience the magic of student-led storytelling on the big screen. This set-side salon offers a close-up look at students filming their own original Web Series productions. Guests will enjoy a lunch in the beautiful Star Atrium of the Bardo Arts Center while mingling with fellow FOA members and learning how your support impacts student productions.

Limited capacity | by February 20th, 2026.

Rise & Shine for the Arts: Membership Drive Brunch

Brown Dining Hall | Sunset Room
04/11/2026 10:30 AM

Welcoming New & Existing FOA SupportersThis special morning celebrates the launch of the 2026 Friends of the Arts (FOA) Membership Drive and the students whose dedication and training are shaping them into accomplished artists and performers - alongside the community that supports and encourages their work. Whether you are a dedicated advocate or exploring ways to get involved, your presence is warmly encouraged.

Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet, a thoughtfully curated silent auction, an exclusive Ä¢¹½¶ÌÊÓÆµFine Art Museum tour, and performances by students of the Belcher College of Fine & Performing Arts. Throughout the event, students will share how their educational opportunities and the support of this community are preparing them for graduation and beyond.

Ticketed event* | RSVP & Purchase your tickets by March 28th

*This is a ticketed event and open to the public. Tickets go on sale Friday, February 13th, 2026 and can be purchased at the John W. Bardo Fine & Performing Arts Center's Box Office: (828) 227-2479