Rock Hill Artists Face Uncertain Future in Historic Gettys Building

News Summary

The Tom S. Gettys Building in Rock Hill, a key cultural hub, is up for sale, leaving local artists concerned about their future. The Arts Council’s lease will end in August, prompting grassroots efforts to save the workspace. The community rallies under ‘Keep Rock Hill Creative’ to advocate for the preservation of this historic venue essential for artistic expression.

News Summary

The Tom S. Gettys Building in Rock Hill, a key cultural hub, is up for sale, leaving local artists concerned about their future. The Arts Council’s lease will end in August, prompting grassroots efforts to save the workspace. The community rallies under ‘Keep Rock Hill Creative’ to advocate for the preservation of this historic venue essential for artistic expression.

Rock Hill Artists Face Uncertain Future in Historic Gettys Building

In the heart of Rock Hill, the beloved Tom S. Gettys Building, a cornerstone of the community, has saddled artists with unexpected news. As the city prepares to sell the nearly century-old building, there are real concerns about what this means for the vibrant creative scene housed within its historic walls.

A Peek into the Past

Originally opening its doors in 1933 as a federal post office and courthouse, the Gettys Building has been cherished for decades not only for its architecture but also for the creative energies that have flowed through it. Now, it stands on the National Register of Historic Places, symbolizing a rich history that the community holds dear.

Lease Termination Raises Eyebrows

Recently, the City of Rock Hill shocked the Arts Council of York County by notifying them that their lease would officially come to an end on August 31. This news arrived in a letter dated February 13, which sowed seeds of discontent among resident artists. Many felt blindsided by the city council’s quick decision to put the Gettys Building up for sale without considering input from the art community it supports. The space not only serves as artist studios but also hosts events aimed at showcasing local talent during First Fridays—a monthly occasion for artists to shine a spotlight on their work alongside local businesses.

The Spirit of Community

In response to the unsettling announcement, local artists have rallied together under the name “Keep Rock Hill Creative”. This grassroots initiative is spearheaded by passionate members of the art community, including a studio artist from the Gettys Center and a professor from Winthrop University. Their objective? To advocate for the preservation of the studio space that has been a haven for artists over the past four decades.

The team is diligently exploring alternative venues that can accommodate the needs of displaced artists, considering options such as gallery spaces and concert venues that can uphold the community’s artistic spirit.

Challenges Ahead

The city has been leasing the Arts Council’s space for around $1,200 a month. As of January, the Gettys Building made headlines because it was listed for sale at a price of $2.2 million. However, the current state of the building reveals underlying challenges; maintenance issues have prompted city leaders to move forward with the sale. The big question that remains—will the next owner embrace the arts and lease the studios back to the artists?

The former courtroom, an enchanting space within the Gettys Building, is currently utilized for various performances, including music and plays, adding to the rich culture of the area. However, without a clear resolution, the fate of these activities, and the space itself, hangs in the balance.

A Call for Action

During the recent city council meeting, community members expressed their dismay and highlighted the necessity for the artistic community to stay interconnected. Longtime advocate for the arts mentioned the significance of having all these creatives gathered in one location over four decades. For many, this isn’t just about studio space; it’s about maintaining a thriving cultural landscape that nourishes Rock Hill’s identity.

With the clock ticking down to August, the urgency for action is palpable. Artists and supporters alike are looking to find solutions that may keep their cherished creative haven alive. Will Rock Hill continue to be a nurturing ground for artistic expression, or will these creatives be forced to scatter? Only time will tell, but for now, community voices are growing louder in support of the artists who’ve made the Gettys Building a vibrant hub.

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier: Rock Hill Artists Face Uncertain Future in Gettys Building
• WSOC TV: City Terminates Lease with Local Artists
• Community Impact: MK Art + Design to Open Studio in Austin Area
• Herald Online: Local News Article
• Community Impact: Drawn2Art Promoting Art Classes in Leander
• Wikipedia: History of Rock Hill, South Carolina
• Google Search: Rock Hill South Carolina artists
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Rock Hill