Newberry Arts Center Set to Transform Old Observer Building
NEWBERRY — Exciting times are ahead for the Newberry community as the old Newberry Observer building is on the brink of a major transformation into the brand new Newberry Arts Center (NAC). A groundbreaking ceremony is set for Wednesday, October 23 at 3 p.m. and everyone is invited to join in the celebration. This landmark moment signifies a bright future for art in Newberry.
A Perfect Fit for Creativity
The NAC has long been a cornerstone of artistic endeavor in the community, but the vision for its future took a significant step forward with this new location at 1716 Main Street. Marquerite Palmer, the program manager for the arts center, expressed her enthusiasm about the change, stating, “It was easy to see it as the permanent home of the Newberry Arts Center after having to move and expand so many times.” She highlighted that the new building checks all the boxes necessary for growth, with ample parking and easy access, all on one floor.
Spanning an impressive 15,685 square feet, the renovated space will feature a well-equipped pottery studio boasting more than 12 clay wheels, three kilns, and dedicated classrooms for clay sessions. Additionally, the center will include administrative offices, three classrooms of 400 square feet each, private studios, and a large meeting space perfect for hosting the annual South Carolina Clay Conference.
A Commitment to Growth
Collin Shealy, the Parks, Recreation and Tourism Director, voiced his excitement about the NAC’s growth, attributing it to the hard work of the staff and the unwavering support from the City Council. “Together, they ensure that this renovation is not just a project, but a promise to elevate our community’s creative spirit for generations to come,” he shared.
This ambitious redevelopment traces its roots back to 2013 when Marquerite Palmer joined the City of Newberry’s Parks, Recreation and Tourism department. Alongside former director Scott Sawyer, she began discussing the idea of an arts program. The project gained momentum with the blessing of then-City Manager Al Harvey, paving the way for what would eventually become a vibrant arts community.
Arts Programs Flourishing
In the summer of 2014, the Newberry Arts Center took its first breaths with art camps and watercolor classes offered to the community, quickly filling up as demand surged. The NAC officially opened its doors in October of that year at 1105 Caldwell Street, expanding its offerings to include pottery classes and more.
Fast forward to February 2015, the arts center launched the first South Carolina Clay Conference, which over the years has become a highlight on the arts calendar, attracting international pottery artists and hundreds of attendees. Each year culminates with a popular pottery sale where local artisans showcase their creativity.
Community Impact
Currently, the Newberry Arts Center occupies three spaces on Main Street and has expanded its reach with free summer art programs called Art in the Park. This initiative brings free art activities to kids and families across various local parks, showcasing the center’s commitment to inclusivity and creative expression.
Further reinforcing this mission is the establishment of CREATE Newberry in 2020, a non-profit aimed at providing scholarships for arts classes and workshops, making them accessible to everyone in the area. CREATE collaborates with the NAC and the Newberry Opera House to ensure that cultural programming flourishes in the community.
Looking Ahead
Palmer assures that while the NAC is moving to a new home, the artisan shop at 1200 Main Street will continue to serve the community. She mentioned, “Visitors love to shop in this space and the local businesses also want the artisan shop to stay at 1200 Main.” The new facility will enable more classes and larger studio spaces, allowing for diverse artistic workshops to be held simultaneously.
The mayor of Newberry, Foster Senn, shared his thoughts on the exciting new chapter for the NAC, expressing appreciation for the groundwork laid by Al Harvey and the council who recognized the potential for an arts program right from the start. “This is a credit to Marquerite, her colleagues and the outstanding grassroots support the arts center has built,” Senn concluded.
Join the Celebration
As the groundbreaking ceremony approaches, the community is encouraged to participate in this momentous occasion. It’s a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together and support the future of arts in Newberry, ensuring that creativity flows for years to come. See you there!
