Rock Hill Artists Unite to Save Local Creative Hub

News Summary

The historic Tom S. Gettys Center in Rock Hill is facing potential sale due to maintenance costs, sparking concerns from local artists. A grassroots movement, ‘Keep Rock Hill Creative,’ has formed to advocate for the preservation of this vital arts space. Artists worry that losing the Gettys Center would diminish their community and creative opportunities. The City Council’s forthcoming decision is critical for the future of this cherished hub for arts and culture.

Rock Hill Artists Unite to Save Local Creative Hub

In the heart of downtown Rock Hill, South Carolina, a potential crisis is brewing for the local arts community. The historic Tom S. Gettys Center, a building that has stood strong since the 1930s, is on the market. Originally a post office and courthouse, this iconic structure is now a cherished creative space for artists and has been an integral part of the local arts scene for nearly 40 years.

A Tough Decision by City Leaders

City leaders have made the challenging choice to consider selling the Gettys Center largely due to looming maintenance costs, estimated at around $3 million. Mayor John Gettys disclosed that maintaining the site costs the city about $62,000 a year while the York County Arts Council contributes only $1,200 monthly in rent. With a price tag of $2.26 million, there is already interest from potential buyers, raising concerns among local artists.

Heartfelt Concerns from Local Artists

The artists who have made their homes and studios within the Gettys Center are understandably worried about the consequences a sale could have on their livelihood. The building houses various art studios and gathering spaces, and it has been a community pillar for creativity and expression.

A grassroots movement has emerged, called “Keep Rock Hill Creative”, in response to these unfolding developments. This passionate group is advocating for the preservation of this invaluable arts space. Recently, over 100 community members gathered at a City Council meeting to share their worries about the looming threat of losing such crucial resources.

The Impact of Losing a Creative Space

Artists fear that if the Gettys Center were sold to a new owner, there might be fewer options for affordable studio space in downtown Rock Hill. The building has been carefully maintained—retaining some of its original features, including charming old mailbox slots repurposed for art displays. This preservation showcases the rich history of the structure and further emphasizes its value to the community.

Dialogue is Key for the Future

City officials have remarked that a future buyer could still keep the building dedicated to the arts, highlighting the need for continued conversation and cooperation with the creative community. However, artists have voiced that losing their current location could irreparably harm Rock Hill’s creative landscape. As an officially recognized arts and culture district in South Carolina, the city holds a unique position that many locals feel could be jeopardized.

Community Events at Risk

The Gettys Center is not just a collection of studios; it serves as a venue for various community events, concerts, festivals, and art classes that bring residents together. The prospect of losing this community hub has left many local artists feeling that their relatively small yet vital community may be diminished.

Without viable alternatives for studio spaces, the closure of the Gettys Center could precipitate a mass exodus of creative talent from Rock Hill. Many artists feel that their concerns are falling on deaf ears as the city focuses on potential financial benefits tied to a sale.

Next Steps for the Community

As the situation unfolds, the potential sale of the Gettys Center must receive the green light from the City Council. Artists and community members alike are urging local leaders to foster more engagement and dialogue about the future of this treasured building. The stakes are high, and for many, this isn’t just about preserving a building; it’s about ensuring that creativity continues to thrive in Rock Hill.

As the community rallies to preserve its artistic identity, it’s clear that the story of the Gettys Center is far from over. The question remains: Will Rock Hill stay true to its creative roots, or will the call of financial gain drown out the vibrant voices of its artists?

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Rock Hill Arts Center’s Future in Jeopardy
Rock Hill’s Getty’s Center: A Creative Crisis?
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Additional Resources

• WSOC-TV
• Herald Online
• Post and Courier
• WCNC
• Google Search: Rock Hill artists community