Black Mountain Center for the Arts

- 225 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711

Nestled in the picturesque town of Black Mountain, North Carolina, the Black Mountain Center for the Arts stands as a beacon of creativity and community spirit. Housed in the beautifully renovated former City Hall, this non-profit organization is a true hub for arts and culture in Western North Carolina. It's a place where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together to learn, create, and appreciate the arts. Whether you are a seasoned artist, a curious beginner, or a parent looking for engaging activities for your children, the Center offers a rich tapestry of programs that are both accessible and inspiring.

The mission of the Black Mountain Center for the Arts is simple yet profound: "to bring the arts to the people and people to the arts." This guiding principle is evident in every class, performance, and exhibition held within its historic walls. As a local art gallery, the Center showcases magnificent work from regional artists, from photography to ceramics, providing a space for both established and emerging talents to share their work with the community. As a theater company, it hosts intimate performances that bring stories to life on a local stage. The Center's role as a dance school and art school provides essential educational opportunities, helping to nurture the next generation of artists right here in our backyard.

For residents of North Carolina, the Center represents a vital resource that enriches our lives and strengthens our community. It provides a creative outlet for personal expression, a space for cultural exchange, and a supportive environment for people to connect. The variety of programs ensures there is something for everyone, whether you want to get your hands dirty with pottery classes, learn a new dance style, or simply enjoy a performance in a beautiful setting. The spirit of the Swannanoa Valley is reflected in the Center’s commitment to providing a welcoming, safe, and inclusive space for all.

The Black Mountain Center for the Arts is conveniently located at 225 W State St, in the heart of downtown Black Mountain, NC. Its central location makes it easy to find and a perfect starting point for a day of exploring the town’s many shops, restaurants, and natural beauty.

Accessibility is a top priority for the Center. The building is equipped with a wheelchair-accessible car park, a wheelchair-accessible entrance, and wheelchair-accessible seating, ensuring that individuals with mobility needs can fully participate in all programs and events. There are also wheelchair-accessible toilets and gender-neutral toilets, creating an inclusive and comfortable environment for everyone. This commitment to accessibility and inclusivity makes the Black Mountain Center for the Arts a true community asset.

While the historic nature of the building means some areas may have limited access, such as the third floor gallery and dance studio which have been affected by elevator issues, the Center has made significant efforts to ensure the ground and second floors remain accessible. The fact that the Center is a transgender safe space and LGBTQ+ friendly further highlights its dedication to being a welcoming and safe haven for all members of the community.

Services Offered

• Art classes for adults and youth, including painting and pottery classes.
• Dance classes with different skill levels, from beginner to advanced.
• Theater performances and music concerts in a cozy, intimate setting.
• Art gallery exhibitions showcasing a diverse range of local and regional art.
• Space rental for private events, meetings, and special occasions.
• Kid-friendly activities, including popular summer camps that foster creativity and fun.
• Educational programs and workshops on various artistic topics.

Features / Highlights

• Non-Profit Organization: The Center is a non-profit dedicated to serving the community and making the arts accessible to all.
• Inclusive and Safe Space: The Center is a designated LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, with gender-neutral toilets to ensure a welcoming environment.
• Excellent Accessibility: It provides wheelchair-accessible facilities, including parking, entrance, and seating, demonstrating a strong commitment to inclusivity.
• Historic and Beautiful Venue: Housed in the beautifully renovated former Black Mountain City Hall, the building itself is a work of art and a historic landmark.
• Kid-Friendly: The Center offers a variety of programs and activities that are specifically designed to be engaging and fun for children, such as their popular summer camps.
• Diverse Program Offerings: From art and dance classes to live theater and music, the Center offers a wide array of activities that cater to a variety of interests and skill levels.
• Support for Local Artists: The art gallery provides a vital platform for local and regional artists to exhibit their work to the community.

Contact Information

Address: 225 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711, USA

Phone: (828) 669-0930

What is worth choosing?

For anyone in North Carolina, choosing the Black Mountain Center for the Arts is a decision to invest in a place that is more than just a venue; it's a living, breathing part of the community. The Center's unwavering commitment to inclusivity and accessibility is a powerful reason to choose it. Knowing that it is a safe and welcoming space for everyone, regardless of identity or physical ability, makes it a rare and valuable resource. The fact that it is a non-profit organization further underscores its mission to serve the people rather than just to profit from them.

The quality and breadth of its programs are another compelling factor. Whether you want to take a beginner's painting class, enroll your child in a fantastic summer camp, or simply enjoy a night out at a theater performance, the Center consistently delivers high-quality experiences. The unique blend of an art gallery, a dance school, a theater company, and an art school all under one roof provides an unmatched variety of opportunities for cultural engagement and personal growth. Choosing the Black Mountain Center for the Arts is about supporting a local institution that truly enriches the lives of those in Western North Carolina and beyond. It’s an investment in the arts, in the community, and in a more creative and connected future for all.

Black Mountain Center for the Arts

225 W State St, Black Mountain, NC 28711, USA