​We provide art for the community by...

  • Offering two exhibition opportunities to artists: 6x6x30 in VMRC's Park Gables Gallery and the Annual Member Show
  • Bringing workshops and speakers from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts to our area
  • Offering Artist In Residency opportunities and participating in collaborations with other local arts organizations as they arise

We provide support to artists in the community by...

  • Encouraging local businesses to help discount member artists' expenses
  • Publishing news related to the local visual arts scene, showcasing our members
  • Focusing on the growth of the local art and culture in the Shenandoah Valley 

History of the Spitzer Art Center

In 2002, Mary Spitzer Etter, a retired educator, left her family’s historic residence, her birthplace, Spitzer House, to Rockingham Fine Arts Association to establish a community art center and gallery. Spitzer House is a two-story Victorian house in downtown Harrisonburg, a few blocks west of Court Square on the corner of West Market and Willow Streets. Rockingham Fine Arts Association honors both Mary Spitzer Etter’s memory and her gift’s purpose as a community art center. Much of Spitzer House’s historic character is being retained, while a location dedicated to creativity. Volunteers have poured countless hours into maintaining the grounds and preparing the house to be open to the public.

In 2019 the decision was made to convey her historic family home to Bridgewater College, as specified by Mary in her will. We have had an amazing journey offering artist studio space, classes and exhibitions in the house over the years and we are truly grateful to Mary for her gift to us. 

History of Rockingham Fine Arts Association

The non-profit organization, Rockingham Fine Arts Association, traces its roots back over many years. Carnegie and Rockefeller Foundation award winner Crystal Theodore moved to Harrisonburg, Virginia in the late 1950s to lead the Madison College (now JMU) Art Department. On the college grounds she found creative activity, however in the city she found no art on exhibit - and no art groups. Around 1960, she and organizer Jimmy Terrell, who was connected to the Virginia Museum, started the Harrisonburg Art Association. This Virginia Museum-affiliated program changed its name later to Rockingham Fine Arts Association.
PO Box 303
Harrisonburg, VA 22803
 spitzerdirector@gmail.com