Nestled in the heart of downtown Mooresville, the historic Depot building holds more than just memories of bustling trains. For the past 70 years, it has served as the vibrant home of Mooresville Arts, a cornerstone of the community’s artistic and cultural life.
The story of Mooresville Arts begins in 1955, when a small group of six local artists gathered in the basement of the War Memorial building to share ideas and foster creativity. This seed of inspiration grew into a thriving organization, officially founded in 1966 as the Mooresville Artist Guild.
In 1974, a pivotal moment arrived. The Southern Railway, recognizing the value of this artistic endeavor, generously donated the historic Depot building to the Town of Mooresville for the nominal sum of $1.00 per year. This act of generosity laid the foundation for Mooresville Arts to flourish within this iconic landmark.
Over the decades, Mooresville Arts has evolved into a multifaceted organization, offering a diverse range of programs for artists and art enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. From engaging workshops for children to challenging classes for adults, from captivating exhibitions showcasing local and regional talent to thought-provoking lectures and demonstrations, Mooresville Arts has something for everyone.
The organization’s commitment to fostering creativity is evident in the success stories of countless artists who have honed their skills within its walls. Brad Lephew, a prime example, began his artistic journey as a student at Mooresville Arts and now exhibits and sells his work through the organization, inspiring others to pursue their artistic passions.
Mooresville Arts is a true community treasure, nurtured by the support of the Town of Mooresville, grants, memberships, and the dedication of countless volunteers. The organization thrives on the active participation of its members, who generously donate their time and talent to ensure the smooth operation of exhibitions, events, and educational programs.
The Depot itself, a testament to Mooresville’s rich history, has played a starring role in numerous films and television shows, including “Banshee” and “Paper Towns.” This unique blend of artistic expression and historical significance makes Mooresville Arts a truly special destination.
As Mooresville Arts celebrates its 70th anniversary, it continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the community. The organization recently underwent a significant renovation, upgrading its facilities to better serve its members and the public. This investment in infrastructure reflects Mooresville Arts’ commitment to providing a welcoming and inspiring environment for all.
Looking ahead, Mooresville Arts remains dedicated to its mission: to enrich the quality of life in the Lake Norman region by fostering artistic expression, providing high-quality arts education, and creating a vibrant cultural hub for the community.
MOORESVILLE ARTS VISION: Mooresville Arts aspires to be the premier venue for the exhibition, education, and appreciation of the visual arts in the Lake Norman region.
MOORESVILLE ARTS MISSION: We are a vibrant community of artists and art lovers who welcome people of all ages and abilities to our classes and galleries. By offering high-quality arts education and exhibitions and providing a venue for artists to show and sell their work, Mooresville Arts is an artistic and cultural resource for the Lake Norman community.
Mooresville Arts invites the community to join them in celebrating this milestone anniversary and to continue to support the organization as it strives to inspire creativity and enrich the lives of all who walk through its doors.
Visit Mooresville Arts online: https://mooresvillearts.org
