Rowayton Arts Center 
is a surprising little
organization. Located in one of Rowayton's older buildings,
on the bank of Five Mile River, it forms a lively focal point
for creation and appreciation of today's art in a setting
that evokes the ambiance of yesteryear.
RAC counts among its six hundred members some of the most professional artists in the area, as well as talented amateurs and beginners. RAC exists to exhibit and sell the works of these creative people, conduct classes at all levels, and serve as a cultural center for the community. It is a non-profit organization, supported by modest memberships dues, classes, commissions on sales of arts and crafts, and fund-raising events.
Rowayton Arts Center is located at 145 Rowayton Avenue, in a small yellow building that was built in 1905 by Reliance Hook and Ladder Company. In 1926, the building was bought by the library association and housed the library until 1966. RAC was established in 1960, and now occupies this former firehouse, which has under gone a number of renovations, the most recent being completed September 2003.
The Center's upstairs is a well equipped, well-lit studio used for classes, workshops, and demonstrations. Downstairs offers three galleries: the Main Gallery, which brings a new show each month to its members; the Little Gallery, a retail center for small artworks, crafts and cards; and the Portside Gallery which is available for special shows. A favorite spot is the open porch overlooking the river.
Each new monthly show is launched with a reception, which gives members and non-members an opportunity to see the show, meet the artists, and make new friends.
There are several classes of membership, including Individual, Family, Art Angel and Business Benefactor. To become an Artist Member, the applicant must submit three works to be reviewed by the Artist Selection Committee which meets four times a year, January, April, July and October.
Directed by a board, the RAC has three part-time staffers. Volunteers augment the staff, and participate in receiving and hanging the shows, hosting openings and summer teas, and working the desk. A bi-monthly newsletter keeps members informed of RAC activities and the winners of each of the art shows.
Special events include Art in the Park following the Rowayton Memorial Day parade and a Holiday Gift Sale during the November - December months.
Those interested in joining may pick up a membership form at the Rowayton Art Center's reception desk.