Yorktown Features Art with HeART

On a gorgeous fall day in October, I found myself wandering around Historic Yorktown. As I meandered between the sand on the beach and the cobblestone walkways, I discovered the quaint, endearing Ballard Street. I decided to battle the hill and explore what establishments the street had in store.

About a quarter mile up the road, I came across an adorable sign luring me into the Black Dog Gallery (114 Ballard Street). In 1992 the site – the former home of Nicolas Martiau – was converted into an art gallery featuring antique prints, textiles, pottery, painted floor cloths, and maps. It also specializes in hand-crafted picture frames. While touring the cozy gallery, the owner greeted me with a smile and welcoming demeanor. I inquired about the meaning behind the shop’s name. Owner Virginia Lascara smiled and responded, “I’ve always been fond of black labs. I always joke I started the business to pay for dog food, but I love my labs and even have a dog rescue.”

Across the block, I discovered the Gallery at York Hall (301 Main Street), which is run solely by volunteers. The establishment, which has been voted Coastal Virginia Magazine’s Best Art Gallery since 2017, features an array of craftsmanship from an abundance of local artists. I found myself admiring the talents of quilters, jewelry makers, and watercolor and oil painters. The gallery also displays seasonal merchandise like autumn décor, holiday ornaments, and wooden toys.

Once I departed, I found myself turning left across the street toward the aptly named On the Hill Gallery (402 Main Street). The Colonial house with teal shutters features seasonal exhibits, like October’s ‘Colors of Fall’ or November’s Veterans Art Show. The gallery, sponsored by the Yorktown Arts Foundation, promotes art education, outreach, and appreciation. That’s evident in the photography, jewelry, oil and acrylic paintings, books, and woven baskets that are on display.

Though my artisanal adventure ended, my appreciation for Yorktown grew. If you find yourself in Yorktown and love art as much as I do, the Black Dog Gallery, Gallery at York Hall, and On the Hill Gallery will fill your heart with joy, excitement, and most of all, admiration.