Cleveland County Arts Council, Shelby

About Cleveland County Arts Council

The Cleveland County Arts Council, housed in the historic post office on Uptown Shelby's square, serves as a community arts hub where visitors explore rotating artist exhibits and participate in creative programs. The gallery presents month-long exhibitions featuring works such as Nico Amortegui's "The Shapes of Us" and Kelli N. Scott's wabi-sabi inspired paintings, alongside a rotating Spotlight Gallery showcasing additional artists. The organization offers classes and workshops including stamp carving, watermelon architecture projects, and free programs like Open Studio, The Yarn Social, and Junque Journal Club. The Arts Council hosts major annual events including the Carolina Pottery Festival and Chalkfest. Founded in 1986, the nonprofit reaches over 21,000 people yearly through exhibits, performances, and classes serving both children and adults seeking to explore new creative skills or rediscover existing interests. Visitors can purchase original art and handmade goods from local artists at the on-site shop.