Art for Everybody at Violet Crown 8/5

The Fralin Downtown Film Series screens Art for Everybody, a documentary that digs into the life and work of Thomas Kinkade, the self-described Christian “Painter of Light.” Kinkade’s bucolic landscapes and quaint cottage scenes peppered with overt religious symbolism gained the artist an immense following. But as his professional star ascended, Kinkade’s personal life devolved into chaos, characterized by alcohol abuse and bizarre public outbursts. After his untimely death by overdose, Kinkade’s family uncovered a trove of unseen works that complicate the legacy of this wildly talented and complex creator. $11–13, 7pm. Violet Crown Charlottesville, 200 W. Main St., Downtown Mall. charlottesville.violetcrown.com

Free news is good news!

Nearly $1 million a year goes into the work you’re reading—covering local government, spotlighting the arts, and telling the stories no one else does. If you value that, help fund it for $10 a month (or whatever tax-deductible gift you can afford). Click to save the free word.