The genesis of the Canton Methodist Church in Cherokee County Georgia goes back to the year 1842. The land where this building sits was the original site, measuring 100 feet by 150 feet, and was donated by the late Judge Joseph Donaldson for this specific use. The structure is the third church to be erected on this same plot of ground in downtown Canton Georgia. It was constructed in 1925 at a cost of about $45,000, and on Sunday, May 2, 1926, Bishop Warren Candler dedicated the building.

As the membership grew, it became necessary to relocate the congregation, and on Sunday, July 12, 1992, the church was deconsecrated. The stained glass windows, pews, cornerstone, bell and lighting fixtures were later removed to the new church location. Cherokee County purchased the property located in the City of Canton in 1992, leaving it temporarily vacant pending plans for redevelopment. Ultimately in 1998 title of the historic building was transferred to the Cherokee County Arts Council. After a significant renovation, it is now open with a gallery, art studios, reception area and offices. The main floor auditorium hosts theatrical and musical events frequently.

Volunteers In The Arts

The volunteer program for the Cherokee County Arts Council offers a variety of opportunities for involvement with the arts programming and performances at the Art Center.Located in the City of Canton Georgia it is conventiently located. VITA's foremost focus is to assist the Arts Center in any capacity needed to ensure continued, quality growth of the arts programming.

Mission Statement:
1. To provide the Arts Center with volunteers to assist with performances, exhibits, programs and administrative needs as requested by the staff; and
2. To provide the volunteers with information and insights into arts opportunities both at the Arts Center and in the surrounding communities.

In addition to helping with exhibits, events, art classes and office work, VITA, on behalf of the Arts Council, participates in the holiday festivals of the Cherokee County Library System, as well as sponsoring a new annual event, "Hanging of the Greens at the Art Center", when the facility will be decorated for the Winter holidays.

VITA holds monthly meetings on the Second Tuesday of each month at 10:00am. Each meeting will include a program concentrating on some form of arts, as well as an update on upcoming programming and volunteer opportunities at the Center.

From Gershwin to raku, you can find it in Cherokee County! This artistic community is vibrant with activity all year long, and there is something for all ages.

The Old Canton Theatre, which was once used for screening movies, is now a performance theater. Owned and operated by the City of Canton, the Canton Theater offers a full season of drama productions. Check the marquee to see what's showing or visit their website.

There are four venues for arts and culture at Reinhardt College: the Funk Heritage Center, the Bennett History Museum,the Fincher Visual Arts Center, and now the new Floyd A. and Fay W. Falany Performing Arts Center is complete. Events and exhibits are available to the public.

Morning Glory Farm is home to a 40 year old cheerfully renovated red barn affectionately called "The Art Barn." Morning Glory Farm is about letting "grow," nurturing creativity, and taking the time to experience and see the world around us with new eyes. Many of our projects involve the combination of art and nature in unique ways. Projects are fun for artist of any age!

Cherokee County Arts Council           
94 North Street
Canton, GA 30114
Call: 770.704.6244