From Past to Present. Built on Stories Worth Telling.
Where Gaston County Comes to Remember.

Art. History. Community.

The
Heart Dreams Stories of Gaston County

The Stories of Gaston County

About Us

Located in Dallas, North Carolina, the Gaston County Museum sits at the crossroads of art and history. Its galleries house everything from local artists interpreting the world around them, to artifacts from notable moments in Gaston County history that transport you to another era. It’s a place designed for discovery.

What's Happening Right Now at the Museum?

Explore rotating exhibits, hands-on galleries built for every age, and programs that ignite curiosity and inspire creativity. Find what speaks to you in our galleries or at events rooted in the stories of Gaston County. Each space at the Gaston County Museum tells a different piece of Gaston County's history. Discover what's on view right now and become a part of our story.

The Many Unheard Voices

A Feature Exhibit Exploring the History of African American Communities in Gaston County, 1870s to 1970s.
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Figure Drawing

Join us the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays for FREE drawing sessions that explore the human form.
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Hoffman’s Farm to Friends

Pretend to grow, cook, and serve your guests like they did in the 1800’s.
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Summer Art Film Series

Caravaggio, Frida Kahlo, Turner & Constable — Exhibition on Screen Returns!
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Loray Mill Historical Walking Tours

Join Museum Guide and Textile Historian, Kent Hester, for a historic walking tour of Loray Mill.
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"The Turnings" by Emily Andress

Four meaningful paintings packed with meaning and interpretation about America’s long history.
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Open July 18th, 2026 – Dec. 31, 2027

The Many Unheard Voices: The African American Communities of Gaston County (1870s- 1970s)

This community curated exhibit puts the thoughts, perspectives, and stories of community members at the forefront of the exhibit curating process. Join us on the 2nd floor galleries to explore the many diverse histories of the African American Communities of Gaston County. 

Where the Past Meets The Present

A Masquerade Ball | Nov. 5th | 6:30pm

The Black & White Gala

Step into an unforgettable evening of elegance, music and celebration at the Gaston County Museum of Art & History’s Black & White Gala | A Masquerade Ball. Enjoy live entertainment, cocktails, great food and immersive moments – all in support of the museum’s 50-year legacy inspiring curiosity and connection.

Join us for a night of purpose, celebration and impact, to lay the foundation for the next 50 years.

Past Featured Exhibit (Closed)

Woven with Purpose Innovating Basketry for Generations to Come

This exhibition of contemporary basketry by Shakeeka Brooks is rooted in the deep history of West African traditions and artistry in the American South. In this stunning exhibit, Ms. Brooks transforms utilitarian craft into a creative expression of movement, form and function.

Gaston Country Museum 2026

The Turnings: A Cycle of American Time by Emily Andress

This series of four monumental paintings explores the American history through the cycles of the four seasons

Spring:
The High
Summer: The Awakening
Autumn: The Unraveling
Winter: The Crisis

Explore layers of interpretation and meaning in this kaleidoscope of color.

Achievements and Milestones

FREE

ADMISSION (ALWAYS)

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Years and Counting

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New Exhibits Every Quarter

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Cataloged Items

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