The Artists League of the Sandhills is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing high quality art education to its members and community. Housed in a converted former train depot in historic downtown Aberdeen, NC, the League offers classes, workshops, studio spaces and a gallery in which its members may exhibit their art. Membership consists of artists working in various 2-dimensional media, who find in the League a supportive and enriching art community.
Artists League of the Sandhills
Gallery, Studios, Classes
Artist-Run Nonprofit Organization in Moore County
Our May 2026 Exhibit
Eclectic
Featuring the art of Lynn Goldhammer, Carol Gradwohl,Pam Griner, Janis Loehr, Meredith Markfield, Tommy McDonell, Jane Mohr, Carol Rosenberg, Debbie Whitley, and Jude Winkley.
Opening Reception:
May 1 (Friday) ---- 5:00-7:00 pm
Upcoming Classes 2026
Pricing: Full Member/Associate Member/Non-Member
Workshops
How to Paint Brilliant Light and Textures of the Natural World – Mark Shasha March 11, 12, 13, 2026
10:00-4:00Award-winning artist and educator Mark Shasha is ready to help you get a step closer to becoming the painter you want to be.
He is prepared for the beginner venturing into painting for the very first time or the advanced professional aiming for the next level.
Mark’s warm personality and love of teaching sets the tone as he shares all he has learned over decades as a professional artist. He will offer personal instruction on drawing, design, composition, soft and hard edges, values, techniques for creating shimmering light, and mixing color tailored to the goals of each student.
You will learn how Mark reduces the complexity of a beautiful landscape to its basic shapes and how he fills paintings with light and natural color.
Please Note: One day of this workshop will be plein air (outside).
Full Members $360/Associate Members $395/Non Members $430
Watercolor with Confidence: Layers and Light - Laura Poss September 14 , 15, 2026
10:00-4:30Discover the joy of watercolor in this two-day workshop with North Carolina artist Laura Poss. This workshop is open to students of varying experience levels, though a basic familiarity with watercolor is recommended. We will cover the essentials of professional materials, creating luminous washes, building strong compositions, and using brushwork to capture both detail and atmosphere. Along the way, we will also look at strategies for mixing and using color effectively.
Each day includes demonstrations, step-by-step instruction, and plenty of painting time as you explore the balance between control and spontaneity, the heart of watercolor. Students will leave with a stronger grasp of layering, color choices, and problem-solving on paper, as well as greater confidence in their own creative process. Bring your curiosity, your questions, and your brushes. This workshop is about learning, experimenting, and enjoying the expressive possibilities of watercolor!
Full Members $225/ Associate Members $250/ Non-Members $270
Our June 2026 Exhibit
Art to Appreciate – Judged Exhibit & Sale
Opening Reception:
June 5 (Friday) ---- 5:00-7:00pm
June 5 (Friday) ---- 5:00-7:00pm
This exhibit includes the works of all members of the Artists League of the Sandhills and is the only art show at the League that is judged by a professional art authority. Winners for best in each category, as well as best overall, will be chosen and ribbons hung by each selected painting prior to the opening reception. The show will hang through Friday, June 28.
VW (9 x 12) by Norma Piggott
Upcoming Events
Mini Art Classes Bring Creative Energy to Aberdeen’s Art Week
The article will be in Sunday’s Pilot and the classes may fill up then – Please call to register this week if interested.
During Aberdeen’s vibrant art week, creativity is taking center stage through a series of mini art classes designed for all ages and experience levels. These short, hands-on sessions invite visitors to step into the world of art, even if only for an hour or two at the Artists League of the Sandhills, Aberdeen Library, Railhouse Brewery, and High Octane. Participants can register for one creative experience or immerse themselves in multiple classes. Payment due at registration – supplies are included for all classes.
Monday, May 18
Artists League – 10:00-12:00 – Acrylic Pouring (adult)- Meredith Markfield – $20.00
Artists League – 1:00-3:00 – Watercolor Follow the Leader (adult)- Jean Smyth – $20.00
Tuesday, May 19
Artists League – 10:00-12:00 – Intuitive Abstract (adult) – Carol Gradwohl – $20.00
Artists League – 1:00-3:00 – Block Print (adult)- Lynn Goldhammer – $20.00
Aberdeen Library – 4:00-6:00 (drop in) – Paper Weaving (family) Free
Wednesday, Mary 20
Artists League – 10:00-12:00 – Alcohol Ink (adult)- Pam Griner – $20.00
Artists League – 12:30-1:00 – Signing Your Art (adult) – Noon Muse with Harry Neely – Free
Thursday, May 21
Artists League – 10:00-2:00 – Painted Aprons (adult) – Kathy Leuck – $40
Railhouse Brewery – 3:00-7:00 – Paint an Engine (kids) – Free (no registration required)
Friday, May 22
Artists League – 10:00-12:00 – Acrylic Follow the Leader (adult) – Beth Ybarra – $20.00
High Octane – 4:00-7:00 – Super Hero Paintings (kids) – Free (no registration required)
High Octane – 4:00-8:00 – House of Odell & Luella Food Truck & live music by Naomi Grace at 5:30.
To register for classes at the Artists League – call 910-944-3979 or email artistleague@windstream.net
Register for Classes and Workshops
Check out the art classes and workshops offered by the Artists League. Now is a great time to explore a new medium, brush up skills, and have a wonderful artistic time! Many classes are suitable for beginners.
Stop in and visit our 34 studios and enjoy the opportunity to talk with artists at work. While you are here, stroll through the studio area and view the hundreds of paintings in all mediums. The Artists League has the largest selection of artwork in the Sandhills!!!
Look at the amazing art, make a purchase, or get inspired to take a class!
What a great gift idea… give original art or classes!
Not comfortable choosing a class or a painting for someone else?
Purchase an ALS Gift Certificate!
Our art library is like nothing in the county! Hundreds of books with art information and instruction, which our members may check out.
This project is supported by the Arts Council of Moore County, and by the
North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural & Cultural Resources,
