Economic Development

  

ChathamArts is currently working on an Arts & Economic Development action plan that will assist in the creation and success of arts-based businesses in Chatham County. We were honored to receive a special grant in 2006 from the North Carolina Department of Cultural Resources towards achieving this goal.

Read "Supporting the Arts is Good Business" by ChathamArts Advisory Board Member Dee Reid.

"Chatham is one of the larger of North Carolina's 100 counties in terms of geography, and one of the richest in terms of artists. Turn over a rock along the Rocky River, and you're liable to uncover an artist photographing or painting a blue heron. Look behind any tree (of which there are still plenty) and you are likely to find a sculpture to tickle your fancy or pop your jaw in awe.

Better yet, make it easier on yourself and visit charming little Pittsboro's historic district with stops at ChathamArts Gallery, the Sidestreet Gallery or the General Store Cafe where art and good food create an ambiance to please both the Palette and the Palate."
– Gary Simpson

ChathamArts has supported the economy of historic downtown Pittsboro for three years through the ChathamArts Gallery. This non-profit retail enterprise offers the juried work of professional artists who live or work in Chatham County.

See the Proclamation (PDF) of support for ChathamArts from the town of Pittsboro.

ChathamArts Gallery Facts

Artist Earnings

  • 70% of sale proceeds are paid directly to the artists
    displaying their work.
  • 2005-06 Artist Earnings: 63% increase in one year.
    (2005: $16,429. 2006: $26,750.)

Visitation

  • 5,503 visitors in 2006.
  • 2005-06: 61% increase in one year.
    (Aug-Dec, 2005: 1,587. Aug-Dec 2006: 2,553.)

Exhibits

  • 12 themed exhibitions annually.
  • 12 opening receptions drawing consumers to downtown Pittsboro.

For more information, please visit our ChathamArts Gallery pages.

Arts Business Seminar for Artists

Arts E-mail Marketing: The Essentials with Eugene Carr of Patron Technology. April 29, 2007, 1:30 – 5:00 pm, Fearrington Barn. Artists’ Seminar, co-sponsored by ChathamArts and Orange County Arts Commission. Tickets $20 in advance, $25 at door. Learn more.