About Us
The vision of the Ottawa Center for the Arts is to become a cornerstone of cultural and creative expression, where historic spaces are revitalized to inspire community engagement, foster artistic innovation, and celebrate the transformative power of the arts.
By creating a vibrant arts campus in the heart of Ottawa, the Center seeks to unite diverse audiences, support emerging and established artists, and ensure that the blending of heritage and creativity enriches lives for generations to come. By transforming historic spaces into vibrant cultural venues, the organization fosters engagement, collaboration, and artistic expression while honoring Ottawa’s rich heritage. Through inclusive programs, live performances, exhibitions, and educational opportunities, the Center serves as a dynamic hub for celebrating the arts and nurturing a deeper connection between people and culture. The Ottawa Center for the Arts provides a venue for these activities.
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The Ottawa Center for the Arts was established to acquire and distribute financial and other resources that shall be used to support efforts to enrich and enhance all forms of the arts for members of the community. From displays to presentations, the organization will feature arts such as literature, painting, sculpture, music, drama, dance, architecture, photography, film, and comics. It will also be open to the future development of arts that is not yet envisioned today.
Why was the Ottawa Center for the Arts established?
What is the timetable for this project?
The Open Table Church transfer of ownership was completed. The Christ Episcopal Church transfer was completed in September 2025. Planning and fundraising are well underway, both for the schedule of expected building’s improvements, and for the initial season of performance offerings expected to unveil in Fall of 2025. Budgeting will proceed in phases, beginning with the necessary first year to establish residence and cover maintenance costs. A Capital Campaign will open by the end of calendar year 2025, seeking donors and grants to cover expenses to upgrade and maintain the building facility. Included projects will be enhanced wiring, sound, and lighting systems, and restroom facilities suitable for a public venue.
The Ottawa Center for the Arts is a not-for-profit organization governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. It was incorporated as an Illinois Not-for-Profit Corporation on April 8, 2023.
Board of Directors
Anne Badger - Executive Director
Christine Benson - Chairperson
Tommy Strow - Secretary
Annette Bruce - Treasurer
Roger Amm
Rex Benson
Douglas Dalrymple
Robert Eschbach
Robert Hasty
Jay Reed
Jonah Sharp
Suzannah Walter
