MGSoA’s Vision for a classroom solution 

COMING 2027

Community Building for the Arts

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Introducing year-round art space to benefit students alongside the greater community of Mt. Gretna, in accordance with MGSoA’s mission:

❋ Meeting area for workshops and small gatherings

A multi-purpose art & community room

A quiet corner of the building full of art books and places to read

❋ Art book library and reading room

This artist’s cathedral will serve many purposes with almost 1700 sq. ft. of open lofty space for artists to spread out and make artwork standing at easels and worktables.

❋ Open classroom full of natural light
❋ Natural outdoor setting by which artists and visitors may be inspired

A visual and contemplative source of learning where nature, art and community mutually support each other.

A secure and lasting classroom solution which expands on the rich resources that MGSoA already shares with the community.

School established to provide transformative opportunities for artists as they grow from students to emerging professionals

2012

Concept proven as MGSoA becomes the preeminent destination for students both nationally and internationally

2014

Challenges mount in finding rental housing for students and faculty. Four Artist Cottages are purchased and renovated to house students plus faculty.

2015: 202 Markwood Ave

2017: 200 Markwood Ave

2018: 411 5th Street

2020: 300 Birch Ave

2015-2020

Long part of our strategic plan, the goal of our own artist space shifts into focus. Suitable land was identified.

2024

Space that was rented is no longer available. Plans to establish permanent space were accelerated.

2025

Why This Space is Needed:

  • The demand for MGSoA programs is growing

  • A stable classroom solution is critical. Local rental options are inadequate or unavailable for full-time and year-round use.

  • Guarantee accessibility and specialized artist functions of the facility.

  • Provide MGSoA artists and their Mt. Gretna neighbors with year-round artist space and cultural resources.

Potential Timing of the Building

Mid 2026

Complete purchase of the land.

Late 2026

Begin Community Building construction.

Ongoing 2027

Further development of surrounding grounds.

Construction of driveway and stream crossing to the build site.

Fall 2026

Building completed, ready for furnishings and use.

Spring 2027

  • What do you want to see in a new classroom? "...AC would be nice. Better Lighting!"

    Former Student

  • What do you want to see in a new classroom? "The only thing I feel that is needed is a larger space."

    Former Student

  • What do you want to see in a new classroom? "More space for students. Cubbies were always overflowing and fitting all students and easels into the classroom for drawing class was always a challenge."

    Former Student

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Creative Ways to Give

  • Talk to your financial advisor or give us a call 717-823-8367.

  • Meet the Required Minimum Distribution from your IRA if you are age 70.5 and up.

  • Donate or sell cars and other valuable items likely to fetch a few hundred to thousands of dollars.

  • Mount Gretna School of Art, PO Box 182, Mt. Gretna, PA 17064