holland williams

From small works on nubby paper to ladder sculptures made with organic materials, Virginia’s Holland Williams draws on her quiet fascination with patterns and colors found in nature.

Artist: Born in Charlottesville, VA, Williams spent her early years in Brussels and England before returning to Virginia. Her family preferred living in old homes, including a restored log house outside Staunton, VA.

With an artistic mother and outdoorsman father, Williams was encouraged to explore dilapidated sheds, muck around creeks and help with gardening and the wood pile.

“These experiences cultivated a respect for traditional handmade objects,” said Williams. “And an eye for what is often hidden in plain sight.”

After earning a BA in graphics and production arts from Simmons University in Boston, Williams built a career in special events and fundraising. This path took her to New York City, Atlanta and the D.C. area before returning to Richmond.

With a lifelong interest in art, she often engaged in workshops, including sessions at Penland School of Craft in North Carolina and Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Tennessee. Williams turned to art full time in 2021.

Studio: Works from her home in the Museum District of Richmond.

Art & materials:

Small, mixed media pieces on handmade paper ($80, unframed and $600, framed). The artist uses watercolors, acrylics and sometimes stitches in her paper work.
Delicate ladder sculptures with organic materials, including foraged lichen, dried stamens, twigs and seed pods ($500 to $700, framed).

Favorite or must-have tools: Small embroidery scissors, tweezers, palette knife and tiny paint brushes.

Inspirations:

Patterns and colors found on the forest floor, tree bark and rocks.
Artists: Ann Coddington, Alice Fox, Ruth Asawa and Henry Moore.
Visits each year to Downeast Maine and San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Old books on woodworking, trees, basket weaving and other early American crafts.

Special commission: Created two 12-inch lavender stalk “ladders” for a private collector.

Recent exhibitions:

Exhibition at LovEvolve in Richmond. 2023.
Show and year-long display at Boketto Wellness, Richmond. 2024.

Recent honor: Her work was included in the 1708 Gallery 2024 Cabin Fever Auction in Richmond. The annual art auction raises funds for the non-profit gallery’s exhibitions and programs.

Recent project: Work included in the 2025 RVA4CERF, a January exhibition and online auction to support the CERF+ (Craft Emergency Relief Fund) and aid craft artists impacted by Hurricane Helene.

What’s new: Her small works on paper and ladder sculptures are included in a new space called Boon, a curated popup shop in Richmond.

Where to buy: