Atlantic Center for the Arts

Immersion in creativity can be a transformative journey for the soul. This philosophy is at the core of what the Atlantic Center for the Arts (ACA) provides. 

Conceptualized as a sanctuary where contemporary artists could innovate, collaborate, and find a community, ACA has been an epicenter of artistic brilliance since its inception in 1977. 

Its founder, Doris Leeper, an artist and visionary, dreamed of a place where creative minds could converge. She also wanted artists to be free from life's distractions. That dream materialized on a lush, 69-acre ecological preserve where artists worldwide from different disciplines unite.

At the Atlantic Center for the Arts, artists are in residence programs to kindle their creativity while fostering dynamic interdisciplinary collaborations. Nearby restaurants like The Garlic make adding a savory meal following a show at ACA doable. 

The center's history is adorned with the names of notable artists and creative thinkers who once walked its paths. Through workshops, master classes, and residency programs, they've given their unique knowledge and skills to newer generations yearning for artistic growth.

The Atlantic Center houses a newfound community of aspiring artists and boasts an impressive lineage of over 3,500 alums. Some noteworthy names are Pulitzer Prize winners, MacArthur Fellows, and Guggenheim grant recipients. 

Atlantic Center for the Arts: Fun Facts & Cool Features

ACA is an award-winning architectural landmark recognized for honoring form and function while paying homage to the surrounding ecosystems. The complex includes studios, living quarters, and a communal "commons," deliberately designed to spark creativity through serendipitous interactions and shared spaces.

Furthermore, the center also houses a unique sound studio that beckons musicians and composers to explore and create. It's acoustically engineered to perfection, making it a preferred haunt for audio artists looking to capture crystal-clear recordings of their work. 

ACA's proximity to other attractions makes planning multiple things to do in a day simple. After exploring the center, head to the Marine Science Center or the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum for an immersive day of science, history and art.

Another cool feature is the Joan James Harris Theater and the black box space. Here, performances are given, and the community can experience avant-garde works firsthand.

The Atlantic Center for the Arts is a cornerstone of the art world, nurturing creativity and innovation. With its history, facilities, and dedication to the growth of artists, spending time here is essential to any Daytona Beach experience. 

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions:

• Begin your journey at the heart of New Smyrna Beach.
• Drive north on Peninsula Ave toward Flagler Ave for about 1.5 miles.
• Make a right turn onto FL-44 W/E 3rd Ave and follow for approximately 2.5 miles.
• Turn left to stay on FL-44 W at Mission Drive for a mere 0.2 miles.
• Take a slight right turn onto Pioneer Trail.
• Turn left onto Old Mission Road.
• Address: 1414 Art Center Ave, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32168

Cost

Prices for performances and exhibitions vary. Check online for details.

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.