LEWISBURG, W.Va. (WVDN) – A new business, 365ART, is set to open with an Open House event on Tuesday, April 21, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., located at 1347 Jefferson Street North, Lewisburg (blue-gray house), two doors down from Kilcollin Dental.
Stop by to enjoy light refreshments and register for a giveaway. 365ART’s welcoming storefront aims to make art accessible to everyone. With parking behind the building, the shop sells art supplies and original artwork, and hosts classes for all ages and skill levels.
Founders Jill and Dennis Spencer, longtime West Virginians who moved back to West Virginia from Maryland in December 2024 after retirement, say the mission is simple: provide reasonably priced art supplies, artwork and classes while supporting Lewisburg’s vibrant artist community.
“I’ve always loved art,” Jill Spencer explains. “Some of my best childhood memories involve making art. As an adult, I’ve taken classes for enjoyment, including several at Carnegie Hall since our move here.” She adds that regular watercolor sessions with Jeanne Brenneman and involvement with Greenbrier Artists has been an inspiration.
Though neither founder considers themselves artists, their passion is complemented by collaboration with local instructors and makers. “Our goal is to be part of the artist community here and to support it,” Dennis notes.
Products include a curated selection from brands such as Amsterdam, Arches, Art Philosophy, Caran d’Ache, Dick Blick, Fabriano, Sennelier and Van Gogh. The shop started with paints, substrates, frames and hands-on kits, focusing on seeking community feedback for future merchandise.
Art classes run weekly and monthly. Jeanne Brenneman leads watercolor sessions on Tuesdays from 2–4 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m.–12 p.m. and 1–3 p.m., with each class priced at $13 and limited to seven students. Beginners receive a starter kit that includes a brush and paints; experienced artists may bring their own supplies or purchase items at 365ART.
For May, the shop is hosting two special monthly classes: a free paper marble dyeing session presented by Greenbrier Valley Pride on Tuesday, May 21, from 5:30–7:30 p.m., and an introduction to tapestry with Susan Ernst on Saturday, May 30, beginning at 1 p.m. with a five-participant limit. Details and reservations for the tapestry class are available by calling the store at 304-992-2799 or emailing 365artsupply@gmail.com. However, no registration is required for the marble class.
Original artwork is another cornerstone of 365ART’s offering. The shop features pieces by local artisans such as Connie Gottshall (handmade beaded jewelry), Susan Ernst (handwoven goods), Bruce Brenneman (woodturner), Thomas Ruggiero (clothes and prints), and Jeanne Brenneman (watercolors). Prices range from about $12 to $500, with most items on the lower end.
“The store is not fancy,” Jill emphasizes. “Come as you are and enjoy yourself—whether you’re taking a class, shopping for gifts or supplies, or simply browsing.” Through May, Jeanne Brenneman’s hand-painted greeting cards—originally $15—are discounted to $12, with envelopes included; the cards are blank inside and suitable for framing.
The Spencers say they chose Lewisburg to contribute to a welcoming, supportive arts ecosystem and to serve the local community with quality materials and genuine hospitality.
“We’re excited to be part of Lewisburg’s vibrant arts scene,” says Dennis. “Whether you’re a student, a hobbyist, or a serious artist, 365ART is here to support your creative journey.”
