Stone Branch Center for the Arts Celebrates Grand Opening with Ribbon Cutting

The Stone Branch Center for the Arts officially opened its doors with a lively ribbon-cutting ceremony, bringing a new creative hub to Main Street. The event, attended by community leaders, artists, and supporters, highlighted the center’s mission to provide art education, exhibitions, and a welcoming space for creative expression.

Terre Jenkins, the center’s founder, beamed with excitement as she welcomed guests and shared her vision for the space. “I really feel blessed to be here and to bring something special to our town,” she said. “We have so much to offer—classes, exhibitions, and even community fundraisers. This is a space for everyone.”

The ceremony featured remarks from key community members, including the Chamber chairman, Bryron Biggs, who described the center as a place that immediately draws visitors in. “You think you’re going to stop by for a few minutes, and suddenly you’re caught up in the atmosphere, the music, the art—it’s wonderful,” he said. Mayor Lori Cockrell also praised the addition of the arts center, calling it a valuable asset to Main Street. “It’s another opportunity for our community to come together, learn, and add a little culture to our town,” she remarked.

The ribbon-cutting itself was met with laughter and cheers. Terre’s excitement got the best of her as the countdown began, and she made the ceremonial cut a little early. “Artists move to their own beat,” she joked, earning applause from the crowd.

The Stone Branch Center for the Arts has an exciting year planned. “Right now, we’re showcasing the work of local watercolor artist Danny Mulvena,” Terre shared. “We’re also bringing back our Indigenous Voices program, which was a great success last year.” Other upcoming events include the return of the popular 10×10 exhibit, a series of art classes in drawing, painting, and printmaking, and new fiber arts and writing workshops.

Terre’s journey to opening the center reflects her deep passion for the arts. For 15 years, she ran an art school in Montgomery County, offering everything from comic book design to animation. When she moved to town and saw the available space, she knew she had to seize the opportunity. “The universe sometimes brings you exactly where you need to be,” she said.

The center has already made an impact, hosting community fundraisers and partnering with organizations like the Hike Kids Foundation and the Phoenix Project. Terry hopes it will continue to be more than just an art space. “We want this to be a gathering place for the community, a place that supports the good work happening all around us.”

Nestled in a prime location across from the Royal Cinema, the Stone Branch Center for the Arts is poised to become a cornerstone of Main Street’s cultural scene. As the evening wrapped up, guests mingled, explored the space, and shared their excitement for what’s to come.

With a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a commitment to creativity, the Stone Branch Center for the Arts is already proving to be a place where art, community, and inspiration come together.