Events and Exhibitions
Art on the River Collector Gala
Friday, October 23, 2026 | 6 PM – 9 PM | Historic Elba Theatre
An immersive evening of contemporary art, cocktails, conversation, and atmosphere inside the historic Elba Theatre.
The Art on the River Collector Gala is a limited-capacity opening night celebration bringing together artists, collectors, sponsors, and supporters for an unforgettable evening celebrating contemporary art in rural Alabama.
Be among the first to experience this year's curated exhibition and enjoy exclusive early access to select artwork available for pre-sale before the gallery opens to the public on Saturday. Throughout the evening, the historic Elba Theatre will transform into an immersive gallery featuring original artwork from more than 30 local, regional, and national artists, including a featured ACEO Gallery showcasing collectible miniature works from artists across the North America.
Throughout the Evening, Guests Will Enjoy
• Catered hors d'oeuvres
• A signature cocktail and handcrafted mocktail created exclusively for the gala
• Two complimentary drink tickets, with a cash bar available throughout the evening
• An intimate gallery atmosphere inside the historic Elba Theatre
• Exclusive early access to purchase select artwork before the public exhibition opens
• Opportunities to meet and connect with exhibiting artists
• Presentation of artist awards recognizing outstanding achievement across the exhibition
• ACEO Gallery showcasing original collectible miniature artwork from artists across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico
• The Mystery Art Box featuring surprise original artwork donated by participating artists
• The Art Gift Basket Raffle filled with unique art-inspired prizes
• The Artist Encouragement Project connecting exhibiting artists with the next generation of young creatives
• A welcoming evening of art, conversation, and community inside one of Alabama's most historic theatres
Reserve Your Tickets
Tickets are limited, and advance purchase is recommended.
Reserve your place today and be among the first to experience the 2026 Art on the River exhibition before it opens to the public.
Art on the River Gallery Exhibition
Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Historic Elba Theatre
Held inside the historic Elba Theatre in downtown Elba, Art on the River brings together local, regional, national, and international artists for a curated contemporary arts exhibition spanning a wide range of mediums, styles, and creative perspectives.
The exhibition features original works, ACEOs and collectible miniature art, photography, mixed media, sculpture, illustration, and other contemporary works presented throughout the theatre in a thoughtfully curated gallery environment designed to encourage exploration, conversation, and connection through the arts.
Visitors will have the opportunity to experience:
• Original artwork from exhibiting artists across the United States and beyond
• ACEOs and collectible miniature works
• Featured contemporary artists
• Photography, illustration, and mixed media installations
• Opportunities to meet and connect with artists throughout the day
• The Brooke Chapman Memorial Young Artist Gallery, celebrating the creativity of young artists from across the region
• The Artist Encouragement Project, where professional exhibiting artists have left handwritten notes of encouragement for participating young artists
Saturday Activities
Throughout the day, visitors of all ages are invited to participate in the Art Detective Challenge Scavenger Hunt, an interactive gallery experience that encourages closer observation of the artwork on display. Participants will match close-up details to original works exhibited throughout the gallery.
Children participating in the challenge will also:
• Vote for their favorite artwork in the professional exhibition for the Young Curator's Choice Award
• Explore the Brooke Chapman Memorial Young Artist Gallery
• Share the artwork that inspired them most
The Young Curator's Choice Award recognizes the professional artwork receiving the most votes from participating children and will be announced on Art on the River's social media following the event.
Art on the River is designed to create an elevated yet welcoming gallery experience within a rural community setting while fostering creativity, supporting artists, and strengthening connections through the arts.
The exhibition, Young Artist Gallery, and all Saturday family activities are free and open to the public, welcoming visitors of all ages.
Brooke Chapman Memorial
Young Artist Gallery
Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Elba Public Library
The Brooke Chapman Memorial Young Artist Gallery is a dedicated youth exhibition celebrating creativity, imagination, and artistic expression through the work of young artists from across our region.
Held alongside Art on the River, the Young Artist Gallery gives children and emerging artists the opportunity to experience their work displayed in a professionally curated public exhibition while building confidence, encouraging artistic exploration, and fostering meaningful connections through the arts.
The gallery features:
• Original artwork by young artists across multiple age groups and mediums
• Professionally displayed and curated exhibition spaces
• Artist recognition and exhibition awards
• Judging by respected arts leaders
• A Community Favorite Award selected by visitors
• The Artist Encouragement Project, where professional exhibiting artists leave handwritten notes of encouragement for each participating young artist
Families and visitors are invited to experience a welcoming exhibition that celebrates the creativity, imagination, and accomplishments of the next generation of artists.
The Brooke Chapman Memorial Young Artist Gallery reflects Art on the River's commitment to nurturing creativity, providing meaningful artistic opportunities, and building connections between emerging and professional artists throughout our communities.
Admission to the Young Artist Gallery is free and open to the public.