Utah Arts Alliance purchases the 15th Ward Chapel
Utah Arts Alliance celebrates significant milestones in its efforts to preserve this historic landmark and develop the Art Castle—a community art center and creative industries incubator supporting local artists and the general public.
Art Castle is a project by Utah Arts Alliance to acquire, preserve and renovate the historic 120-year-old 15th Ward Chapel located at 915 West 100 South in Salt Lake City. The plan is to create a community gathering space, an arts and creative industries incubator, an immersive art attraction, and a regional draw for those that would like to experience and participate in new emerging art forms. The Arts Castle project will be an incredible economic development driver and regional tourism draw in one of the most underserved areas in Utah.
Through private donations and a state appropriation, $1 million has been raised to acquire the building and begin the renovations. Since the capital campaign was launched, Utah Arts Alliance has purchased the 15th Ward Chapel, enlisted AJC Architects to create the building plans, and opened staff offices in the upper level of the Art Castle. The building was purchased “As-Is,” and the capital campaign–with a goal of $5 million–continues to complete the phases of development integral to the project.
“The Art Castle will be a place that is for everyone that wants to experience arts and culture in this community. This place will be an economic driver for the west side of Salt Lake while also creating a better quality of life for residents and visitors alike. When you come to the Art Castle you will be experiencing something that is totally unique and original to Salt Lake,” said Derek Dyer, Executive Director of Utah Arts Alliance.
To celebrate these significant milestones, Utah Arts Alliance and Key Bank invite the community to join us at the Art Castle for a free, all-ages celebration on October 23.
Art Castle Community Celebration presented by Key Bank
October 23, 2 – 6 pm
Food, Art and Fun
All ages, Free and Open to the Public
As an organization, Utah Arts Alliance highly values inclusivity and works diligently to create spaces and cultural opportunities that are accessible to all. The Art Castle was built well before building codes mandated features to accommodate those with disabilities and mobility issues. To address this issue, the next phase of fundraising will include significant upgrades to ensure the Art Castle is implementing the best design practices for accessibility. Projects include new, ADA accessible restrooms, an elevator to access the various levels, and a ramp system to establish a proper flow throughout the spaces.
Donations of any size are currently being accepted at utaharts.org/artcastle. Donors will be invited to preview events and be recognized at utaharts.org. Donations of $500 or higher will receive a limited edition, signed-and-numbered print of “Art Castle”, commissioned by Artist Scott Tuckfield. Foundations and larger capital donors should contact Executive Director, Derek Dyer at derek@utaharts.org.
