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| we have this idea…
In 1973, a group of progressive citizens committed their time and energy to creating the Foothills Arts Council. By 1975, the council was granted non-profit status as a charitable organization with a mission to “foster community and creative practice through arts education, collaboration, and entertainment.”
Nearly half a century later, we are continuing in our commitment to enhance the arts in our community, with our sights set on an ambitious goal: restoring the historic Gilvin Roth building, and transforming it into the Foothills Arts Center, a regional destination for vibrant visual and performing art experiences.
estimated expense
| it’s in the works
available now
— The Yadkin Valley Fiber Center ensuring the continued practice of traditional handweaving within our community and introducing modern techniques and costume/garment design
— Luthier Program learn the fine art of violin-making.
— Traditional Woodworking learn the art of woodworking with traditional hand tools.
— Youth Art designed to provide engaging experiences for our youngest artists
— Bacchus Gallery featuring a curated selection of local and regional art.
— Artist Studios (additional studios available; visitors by appointment)
in development
— Clayworks a 4,000 square foot ceramics studio dedicated to hand building, throwing, firing, and glazing
— Traditional Woodworking learn the art of woodworking with traditional hand tools.
— Glassblowing and Metalsmithing a metal pole barn and forge will be constructed on the site of the former pool.
— Foothills Craft Center additions will be removed from the lobby, restoring the flow of the original space and enlarging the current craft gallery. The Foothills Craft Center will represent artists from the eighteen counties of the Yadkin Valley watershed region.
future development
— Artist-in-Residence and Instructor Housing located on campus to promote an immersive art experience
— Performing Arts Center home to the Foothills Theatre, a community theatre group established in 1969
— The Chatham Museum showcasing Elkin’s rich textile heritage
— Café and Gardens serving visitors and providing a backdrop for movies under the stars, garden galas, and festivals
Interested in the details of our development timeline?
| we need your help to achieve our mission
“Inspiration exists, but it has to find us working.”
— Pablo Picasso
As eager as we are to continue to expand programming, we must first address damages incurred by years of neglect. The historic center and mill offices have sustained significant water damage. Electric, plumbing, HVAC, and fire/safety issues further render portions of these buildings unusable until addressed.
This year, your contribution is not only to support of the vitality of the arts — your gift is also an opportunity to be part of a monumental project to preserve and restore our history and heritage. The Foothills Arts Center at Chatham Mill will provide enjoyment and enrichment for generations to come.