Rendering ‘Sculpting the Future’ of the Cain Center. Design by Nicole Perri Architecture

April 24. By David Yochum. The Cain Center’s ceramics studio fundraising effort has already brought in $1.3 million, as the public fundraising campaign gets under way.

The money was raised during what’s known as the quiet phase where the focus is on securing major gifts from a select group of donors.

The goal is $5 million total for a ceramics studio with sculpting wheels, a glazing room and kilns, both indoors and out.

Quotable

“The ceramics program existed in Cornelius long before Cain Center for the Arts was ideated,” said Justin Dionne, executive director of the $30 million Cain Center which is also mortgage free. “We are very excited to re-affirm our commitment to this art-form and artists through this new project.”

Justin Dionne, the Cain Center’s executive director. / Sean Meyers Photography

The funds raised so far—$1.343 million to be exact—have been used to purchase historic property downtown as well as design, construction and site costs. While one of the historic houses was not restorable, the two remaining will be repurposed.

Details

One will have additional office and meeting space. The other will house the ceramics studio. Naming rights for each house are available at $500,000 each.

There will also be a versatile outdoor courtyard, envisioned as a hub for creative placemaking and a community gathering spot, serving as a welcoming gateway to Downtown Cornelius.

The corner parcel included in the project will allow for further expansion and development.

A visually appealing courtyard is designed to host a variety of events, workshops, and performances, encouraging residents and visitors alike to come together and celebrate the arts and community, Dionne said.

The target completion date is March of 2026 with the full launch of programming in the fall of next year.

How to give: Click on www.cainarts.org/support or call 980-689-4643

Naming opportunities

Puckett House $500,000

Goodrum House $500,000

Outdoor Stage $150,000

Outdoor Kiln $100,000

Handbuilding Room $50,000

Wheel Room $50,000

Front Porch $50,000 (2 available)

Glazing Room/Puckett $25,000 – Secured

Reception Entry/Puckett $25,000 – Secured

Conference Room/Goodrum $25,000 – Secured

Ceramics Flex Studio $25,000

Staff Office/Puckett $25,000 – Secured

Ceramics Rack/Holding Room $25,000

Ceramics Kiln Room $25,000

Ceramics Kiln $10,000 (3 available)

Ceramics Wheel $5,000 (11 available)

Ceramics Handbuilding Table $2,500 (3 available)