MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Art League of Daytona Beach, INC. is “To encourage and promote the creation and appreciation of art”, by offering artists, of all skill levels, opportunities through education, exhibition, outreach, and fellowship.
We fulfill our mission by offering classes, workshops, exhibitions, meeting space, and various enrichment programs for members and non-members. The Art League provides programs for a wide spectrum of individuals. Regardless of age and ability, all are encouraged to have fun and tell their stories through the creative process. The Art League welcomes exhibiting artists at all levels, from those who have never shown their work before to professional artists.
HISTORY
The Art League of Daytona Beach (click the link to the left and read about Don Emery beginning on p. 311) is the oldest arts organization in Volusia County. The Art League was founded in 1927 by a group of local artists who formed an association with other artists interested in sketching at locations in and around Volusia County. Under the direction of Donald J. Emery and John A. Rogers, the group became a more formal club. The group’s first exhibit was held at the former Ivey’s store at the corner of Magnolia and Beach Street in Downtown Daytona Beach with 45 artists participating. Their enthusiasm led to the formation of the Art League of Daytona Beach, which became chartered on May 28, 1932. The group’s original goals included promoting and encouraging arts, their appreciation, and providing exhibition opportunities to the growing number of artists in the Halifax area. These goals provided the cornerstone of our current mission statement.
In 1934 the Art League joined the Florida Federation of Art, and members attended meetings and conventions throughout the State and hosted an annual juried exhibition. The Art League held meetings in various locations until, in 1948, we opened a small building located at 433 S. Palmetto Avenue in the historic district of Daytona Beach, where we are located today. In 1994, an addition/renovation project was completed, giving the Art League approximately 4,000 square feet housing a gallery, two classrooms, and administrative offices. In 2008, with the assistance of the Volusia County ECHO grant, the Art League added a new parking lot on the south side of the building.
In 2014, the Board of Trustees and Executive Committee voted to undertake an extensive program of renovation and repair to ensure that the Art League will continue to expand its opportunities for members and all artists to learn, exhibit, and enjoy the fellowship of other artists, well into the future.
Over the years, local, regional, and nationally-known artists have exhibited and taught at the Art League. Today, we continue to pursue our commitment to provide a community resource for artists of all levels - and everyone who loves art!
