Description
Amherst Community Arts Center was incorporated in March of 2005. Formerly Mudpie Center for Visual Arts (founded in 1999), ACAC separated from Mudpie to become its own entity in 2004. ACAC originally occupied a small 2-room space at 534 Main Street; in the summer of 2004, ACAC expanded into the neighboring space to encompass 2000 square feet.
ACAC prides itself on being an inclusive organization that welcomes people of all ages and all abilities. ACAC is handicapped accessible, including a potter's wheel, which can be adjusted for use with a wheel chair. On average, one full-time staff person, 10-12 instructors and 2-5 workstudy interns are employed by ACAC. Volunteers and board members are also integral to the continued success of the Art Center.
ACAC is conveniently located in walking distance from the center of town, is on the bus line and provides parking. There are three studios within the ACAC space: a jewelry studio (equipped for both silver-smithing and enameling); a clay studio with 9 potters' wheels, a handbuilding room, a slab roller and an electric kiln; a mixed media room for drawing, painting and mixed material classes.
ACAC has four primary programs throughout the year: seasonal 8-week art classes offered to children and adults in collaboration with Amherst Leisure Services and Supplemental Education (LSSE); summer 1-week art classes for children; Art For All- an inclusion art program for children with and without special needs; ArtReach- traveling kindergarten art classes.
