Carroll County Ohio Arts Commission History

The CCCAA began as a committee September 22, 1993 and was incorporated as a not-for profit organization on September 26, 1994. The first center of operations was at 39 East Main Street, Carrollton, Ohio, a 20X60 foot area within a restaurant, which was to serve as gallery, classroom and office. A small gallery was created representing 19 local artisans.

Art classes were conducted at the restaurant and performing art programs were outsourced to large facilities within the community.

Today we are reaching for new horizons from our permanent home. A grass root effort netted approximately $125,000, all from private contributions, to lease and renovate the historic Rutan-McCully Feed Mill in Carrollton. The new facility offers approximately 1500 sq. ft. of space containing our first floor volunteer-staffed gallery and sales area, display cases for pottery and jewelry and a Creative Writers book nook. The second floor, 1500 sq. ft. space contains our standing gallery featuring works by approximately 50 Carroll County-affiliated artisans. This space houses the administrative office and is the site of our small performing arts programs as well. Recently a vertical lift to the second floor was installed, making the entire building ADA-compliant.

A new challenge now faces the arts organization. The renovated building and its lot have been purchased. The commission now conducts an annual fund raising campaign to provide revenue to pay down the mortgage and to continue with building renovations. Future funding will allow us to expand not only the building but also our programs.

Current staffing consists of a part-time Administrative Director, Gallery Manager, Chorale Director and custodial person. Active Board Members chair various committees, our 40+ volunteers conduct the daily gallery operations and the 250+ due-paying members and corporate sponsors provide the operational and financial support.