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Empowering Communities Through the Arts
The ArtsCenter is the largest provider of arts education in Orange County. Since our inception 50 years ago we have grown from a single music class into a dynamic multi-disciplinary educational arts center serving students of all ages through professionally taught classes from traditional ceramics and painting classes to laser cutting and 3D printing workshops. Our galleries and stage feature culturally diverse artists from across the region. The ArtsCenter is a cultural hub where community members from all backgrounds gather to collaborate, learn and build community.
Nurturing Creativity for a Brighter Tomorrow
The ArtsCenter is a non-profit with a mission to educate and inspire artistic creativity and to enrich the lives of people of all ages. The vision of The ArtsCenter is to create an educational environment that provides opportunities, inspirations, and tools to people of all ages and skill levels to participate in the arts.
The ArtsCenter is a place of belonging, a space where inspiration is drawn not just from art, but from the vibrant energy and creative spirit of those around us. We strive to make art accessible, relatable, and engaging for all, ensuring our programs and initiatives reflect our deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusivity.
The ArtsCenter’s History: Our Colorful Legacy of Artistic Celebration
Since its inception in 1974, The ArtsCenter has been a thriving hub of artistic discovery in Carrboro, North Carolina and wider Triangle community. Through the years, we have transformed from a modest community arts center into a regional lighthouse of creative inspiration, enriching countless lives with our pioneering programs, performances, and events.
The ArtsCenter, initially known as ‘ArtsSchool,’ was founded by artist Jacques Menache in 1974. Drawing inspiration from the multifaceted cultural institutions in Mexico City, Menache identified a need for a creative sanctuary in Carrboro, then primarily a small mill town.
Beginning with a rented space on Main Street, Menache organized an array of art classes and events, rapidly growing the student body to over 300 by 1979. After relocating to Carr Mill Mall and rebranding as The ArtsCenter, the organization expanded to encompass a variety of arts disciplines, concerts, and poetry readings.
As the need for a permanent home emerged, Menache secured a 20,000-square-foot facility in a former supermarket, where The ArtsCenter resided until 2023. Now, we embark on a new chapter in our modern, state-of-the-art facility at 400 Roberson Street, heralding the next 50 years of artistic excellence.
The new ArtsCenter stands as a beacon of creative expression, conveniently located within walking distance of downtown shops, eateries, the new Orange County library, and more. With ample parking, we can better serve visitors from all 100 NC counties and beyond, inviting tourists and locals to immerse themselves in The ArtsCenter experience and explore the wonders of Carrboro. We take pride in our achievements and the influence we have had on the community, and we eagerly look forward to nurturing creativity and fostering lifelong learning at our new location for years to come.
