ABOUT US

The Beaufort County Arts Council (BCAC) is located at 108 Gladden Street in historic downtown Washington, NC - just one block from the waterfront where those traveling by boat receive free docking on the Pamlico River. BCAC has roots that extend back to 1963 when the Pamlico Arts Group was formed as an outgrowth of a painting class offered by the Washington Recreation Department. Over time, the organization established monthly art exhibits, held poetry readings, and offered art classes in a variety of mediums. The group also established the Fine Arts Division of the Beaufort County Fair.

BCAC's first meeting with a representative of the North Carolina Arts Council (NCAC) was in 1971, the same year the organization was incorporated as a non-profit. BCAC secured its 501(c)(3) status in 1972.

A phone call from Mary Regan, Executive director of NCAC, in January of 1974 led to the arrival of Artrain in September of that year. As a result, Artrain offered five days of arts activities that involved hundreds of local volunteers and played a major role in establishing BCAC as a significant player in the community.

Louise Lane was the first paid director beginning in 1974. Currently, she and her husband Harold are members of BCAC's Board of Directors as Founders/Directors Emeritus. BCAC has been fortunate through the years to enjoy continuity in its leadership that has helped the organization stay focused and progressive in serving the citizens of Beaufort County.

BCAC is currently designated a Regional Arts Partner by NCAC for its work with neighboring Hyde and Washington counties. As an organization with over 35 years of community service, BCAC enjoys positive working relationships with many civic, institutional, and municipal partners.

The City of Washington provides space in the historic Atlantic Coastline Railway Depot for BCAC administrative offices and the Lane Gift Shop. The depot has been home for BCAC since the early 70's when it occupied a small space in the upstairs hallway. Today, the depot provides meeting space for a variety of arts organizations, a gift shop to showcase local artists and artisans, and gallery space in the Washington Civic Center.

BCAC continues to be a driving force and advocate for the arts in Beaufort County.