Art Classes
· Charlottesville, VA
Published in partnership with Mountainside Arts C'ville
Book online anytime
Mountainside Arts is a cozy home studio in the woods just south of Charlottesville founded by veteran art educator Rachel Pompano McLaughlin. They offer private art events and small weekly adult workshops focused on painting and creative expression in a welcoming, community-oriented environment. Beyond visual arts, Rachel also shares original art and nature songs through 10000 Trees Music, with an educational YouTube channel in development.
Best for: Adult artists seeking community, Slow living enthusiasts, People looking for meaningful creative experiences, Those interested in watercolor painting
Service area: Charlottesville, VA and surrounding areas
Intimate Studio Setting: Located in a cozy home studio in the woods, Mountainside Arts offers small weekly workshops designed for meaningful connection and personal creativity rather than large group classes.
Founder-Led Instruction: Led by Rachel Pompano McLaughlin, a veteran art educator who brings decades of teaching experience and a philosophy centered on how art helps people slow down, find their voice, and build community.
Values-Driven Programming: Classes and events often support charitable causes and celebrate meaningful occasions like International Women's Day, with proceeds donated to community organizations.
“We had an amazing experience! Rachel had thoughtful and engaging projects for my daughter and her friends. When my daughter started to ask questions, Rachel tapped into her strengths as an art teacher. She taught her about how colors blend and ways to use different paints. We can’t wait to do another class! The studio is warm and welcoming, and the space is soothing for the students and those of us the enjoyed sitting on the patio and relaxing.”
— Amanda Williams, Google Review
“Our Family Art Class was absolutely wonderful. We thoroughly enjoyed being with Rachel who is an incredibly talented artist who delights in inspiring creativity. She is a teacher, our ages were from 7 to 70 and she was able to inspire each of us and gently walk us through the art processes we were learning. It was obvious to us that this is her “dream come true” as she created a “magical” time for all of us. We highly recommend her studio and we will be visiting her again very soon.”
— P A Gregoria, Google Review
“Rachel is kind, compassionate and patient as an art teacher to groups of all ages and capabilities. She makes you feel valued and finds the beauty in all art. Taking a beginning class with her made me feel like I have some abilities as an artist and I would like to now take another! The studio is clean, colorful and has all of the tools and equipment needed to be successful at whatever you are attempting. Rachel is expert on guiding you through the processes and making sure that you are having a nice time while doing it. I see that she does small parties--I may just have to organize my birthday party here! Thanks, Rachel! I had so much fun and it was for such a great cause!”
— Cher Stewart, Google Review
“Amazing studio and great opportunity for children. Rachel is kind and thoughtful and an outstanding teacher. My kids loved their art class and can’t wait to go back! CANT say enough great things about Mountainside Arts!”
— Sarah Lupo, Google Review
“Such a fun, creative way to spend an afternoon. Rachel is enthusiastic and an excellent teacher. Also felt very safe with all of the COVID precautions she had taken in the studio!”
— Laura Hendrickson, Google Review
Book online: Book Online Now →
Address: 2413 Old Lynchburg Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22903 (Get directions)
Website: mountainsideartscville.com/