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, free from life's distractions. That dream materialized on a lush, 69-acre ecological preserve where artists from different disciplines and parts of the world could unite.

At the Atlantic Center for the Arts, artists are in residence programs designed to kindle their creativity while fostering dynamic interdisciplinary collaborations. 

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. 

Fun Facts & Cool Features

Delve into the world of the Atlantic Center for the Arts, and you uncover layers of intrigue with every step. 

ACA is an award-winning architectural landmark recognized for its design that honors 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. 

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 New Smyrna 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.