PLEASE NOTE: Contributions to the Sharon Arts Center are fully tax-deductible.

In 1947, art lovers William L. and Ruth Crary Young set up their 18th century cottage in Sharon, NH as a center for artists and artisans in the Monadnock region to study and develop their skills and creativity.  A consignor shop to display and sell the "handcrafts" created at this new and welcome institution opened later that year. Then in 1955, the Sharon Arts Center (SAC) opened an exhibition gallery, completing the cycle of education, exhibition and promotion.  From its inception, SAC's mission statement has been:  "to stimulate and promote education in the theory and practice of the arts and handcrafts through instruction, exhibitions, and assistance to practitioners of the arts and handcrafts in the marketing of their products." 

Almost 54 years later, there have necessarily been many changes to meet the need for growth of both the Arts Center and its constituents. Over 35,000 visitors a year come to SAC for the high quality work shown in the Fine Craft Gallery and the Exhibition Galleries. Their purchases encourage and support the careers of our 500-plus artists. 

• Did you know that the Sharon Arts Center is southern New Hampshire's largest nonprofit arts organization and, with your help, supports over 500 artists and artisans, both as an exhibition space and as a marketplace?

In 1997, the Sharon Arts Center formed the MEDICI SOCIETY, a group of leadership donors who are committed to supporting our mission with annual contributions of $1000 or more. Their generosity has encouraged the support of other individuals, businesses and foundations and formed a cornerstone for the Center's growth. 

Investment in the arts makes good sense. In the report, the Economic Impact of the Arts in New Hampshire, it states, "the arts improve the state's quality of life and enhance its appeal as a place to do business. Through these benefits and the impact of arts spending, the nonprofit arts community makes a significant contribution to both the spiritual well-being of our citizenry and the vitality of our economy."

The Sharon Arts Center is supported in part by grants from: the NH State Council on the Arts; the National Endowment for the Arts; the Grimshaw - Gudewicz Foundation; the Gilbert Verney Foundation; and the NH Charitable Foundation through Monadnock Community Foundation.The Sharon Arts Center is also grateful for support through donations from individuals and businesses in our community, and by art lovers like you.