Saturday, October 25
A full day of inspiration, insight, and creative exchange. Hear from practitioners doing powerful work across West Virginia, engage in peer-to-peer learning, join a public art walk, and take part in dynamic workshops and collaborative labs. Breaks are built in so you can explore the neighborhood, connect with fellow attendees, and soak up the creative current of the district.

8:30 - 10:00 AM | Continental Breakfast in The Dream Bean

9:00–10:00 AM | Calling in the Creatives
Start the day with a powerful session on gathering a critical mass of creatives, launching and sustaining grassroots arts movements, and supporting artists as catalysts for change. Featuring Jim Padjarillo (The HeART of WV), Kabrea James (Inner Sunshine Arts), and Lauren Kemp & Denise Poole (RenewALL).

10:00-10:30 AM | Studio Visit / Rest Break                                                                             

Drop in on the studio of textile entrepreneur Reid Miller and hear about her innovative research and work with custom made womenswear, or take this time to recharge.

10:30 AM–12:00 PM | Painting the Town: Public Art Talk & Tour                                      

From wild idea to final brushstroke to community unveiling,  this session dives into the art of making art public. Join a lively conversation about how murals and installations come to life, how they transform space and spark dialogue, and what it takes to get them off the ground. Then hit the streets for a guided walking tour of Princeton’s vibrant public art scene with Jeff Pierson, director of Public Art for the City of Charleston, nationally known muralist and Princeton native Patch Whisky, and hometown imagineer Lori McKinney.

Lunch 

Enjoy a delicious catered lunch accompanied by live music from local artist Jacob Brooks.

1:00–2:00 PM | Galleries & Art Collectives as Community Building                              Explore how art spaces can serve as anchors for connection, creativity, and transformation. This conversation features Vicki Queen (House of Art), Cecil Ybanyez (Bloomfield Richwood), art curator and cultural supporter José Rizo, and Hannah Mitchell (Love Hope Center for the Arts).

2:00 PM | Gallery Visits                                                                                                         Stroll through Holler Contemporary Appalachian Art Gallery and meet the creators, Rita Montrosse and Richard Shrewsbury, then experience the Diamonds & Gold Look Gallery and meet artists from the Appalachian Artists Association.

2:30–3:30 PM | Resources for Your Community Movement

Discover tools, programs, and connections to help build a team, grow your work, and support creatives, with Robby Moore (Creative Network) and the WV Hub. 

3:30–4:00 PM | Studio Visit / Rest Break                                                                             

Drop in on the studio of visual artist Promise Sloane and see her beautiful work — or take this time to recharge.

4:00–5:00 PM | The Culture of Coming Together: Collaborative Events, Music & Thinking Outside the Box

This session showcases the power of music and collaborative, culture-driven events that energize communities, spark tourism, and bring fringe ideas to the forefront. Hear from the big thinkers and creative minds behind Back Home Festival (Robby Parsons), BEX (Saja Montague), and Lori McKinney (Culturefest World Music & Arts Festival).

5:00–6:00 PM | Explore the Neighborhood                                                                         

Take this hour to unwind, wander, and experience the district at your own pace. Visit shops and galleries, grab a bite or a coffee, or simply soak in the creative energy all around you. (see the map for recommendations)

6:00 PM | Dinner with Live Music & Star Changemaker Awards

Gather for a shared meal, live music, and a celebration of creative leaders making bold moves in their communities. 

7:30 PM | Open Stage Night at The Dream Bean

Celebrate the power of open mic culture and creative expression. Share your voice, your vision, your verses — whether it’s a song, a poem, or a work-in-progress. All forms are welcome.

Featuring a special set by local artist Jon Bolt.

9:30 PM | Boc-Hord Brewery 
Head down to our neighborhood brewery for a special after-hours mingle with fellow attendees. Enjoy local craft brews, relaxed conversation, and live music to close out your night in the Grassroots District.

Throughout the day — visit with Born & Bred as they record an on-site podcast and share their journey celebrating West Virginia’s musical heritage. From new music releases to heritage stories and artist features, discover how they amplify local voices and keep the beat of our mountain culture alive.

Ongoing Throughout the Day
🎨 Make & Take: Create your own tie-dye CYS t-shirt with artist Jillian Firth — a wearable keepsake of your journey.