JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The Arts Center announced at its annual gala they are “Raising the Bar for the Arts” as the organization embarks on a $2 million capital campaign to purchase and renovate the former Wonder Bar building to the west of its current location in downtown Jamestown.

“Our cornerstone program, Arts After School, is bursting at the seams. There is a waiting list for every class, we hate turning kids away,” said Mindi Schmitz, Executive Director of The Arts Center. “We want to expand our programming to include children of all ages.”

This expansion will allow The Arts Center to triple its capacity for the after-school program while adding a teaching kitchen to the facility to offer culinary classes to not only the children but adults as well. A green space that is secure
and like the gallery, and arts park will be available to the public for special functions. There will be a gallery and
living space for both traveling artists and artists in residence. The remodeled space will showcase two studios for
traveling artists and a shared living space with independent suites for their comfort and privacy.

The current facility will remain intact with the exception of the upgraded classroom. Including the updated classroom, there will be four teaching classrooms.

“Within the past few years, our Fine Arts Association has grown exponentially. To continue to grow our mission and offer new, expanded services to those who benefit from our organization; the time is now to move forward with this exciting addition to the Arts Center’s blueprint in the downtown area. This endeavor will not only benefit the Arts Center but will continue to be a benefit for our community for years to come.” said Mary Lou Urquhart, BOD, and Capital Campaign.