History

We started serving, inspiring others and changing lives in 1974.

We gathered our first set of instructors and students more than 35 years ago with the simple idea of inspiring creativity and artistic expression. Today, ArtSchool represents just one facet of the many ways The ArtsCenter serves the community by nurturing creativity through exhibition, education and performance.

Here are a few key milestones in our history: 

• Founded in 1974 by painter and entrepreneur Jacques Menache as ArtSchool as a single painting class in a second floor walk up on East Main Street in Carrboro, The Art School was incorporated in 1975.
• Founded by a group of local artists to encourage artistic development, experimentation and collaboration.
• The IRS approved The Art School as a non-profit under section 501(c)3 on Nov  12, 1976.
• By 1978, Town of Carrboro provided support and an Advisory Board was established. Moved to Carr Mill Mall.
• In 1980, children’s programming began.
• Changed its name to The ArtsCenter in 1987 when it acquired and renovated our current space.
• Current size is about 20,000 square feet.
• Currently serving about 60,000 people, with close to 50% being children.
• Annual budget is $1.2 million.
• Programs support about 70% of the budget.  

One of the most all-inclusive arts centers in the country, offering performance, exhibition and education all under one umbrella and mostly under one roof.