Learn a bit about how The Art Engine will work
General Questions
Where is The Art Engine located?
Our address is 145B E. South Main Street, Littleton, NC. We are located in the same building as Frank's Fine Arts and Gypsy Wood Leathers.
When will you open?
Our target is late spring of 2026, depending on construction.
Who is running The Art Engine?
Cathy and Olivia Wiggins are opening The Art Engine as a creative space to foster the arts in Littleton, NC and the surrounding areas. After opening Frank's Fine Arts and Gypsy Wood Leathers, Cathy and Olivia discovered the community wanted a place to take art classes and practice their art form.
Membership
What does a membership include?
Members will have be able to create in The Art Engine during open studio hours and will have early access to sign up for classes. Membership does not include the cost of classes or certification for studio spaces.
Do I need to be a member to use The Art Engine studios?
Yes. Only members who first undergo a certification class can use a studio during open hours.
Can I bring a friend?
No. Only members are allowed in our studios due to safety reasons.
Do you offer family memberships or discounts for multiple family members?
No. Each person must have their own membership.
Do I need to be a member to take classes?
No. Our classes are open to all, but our members will get first access for signing up.
How much does it cost?
Memberships are $600 each year. This can be paid in $50/month increments or a one-time payment of $550. Membership does not include the cost of certification classes for the studios.
If I join now, when does my year of membership start?
Your membership will begin with the opening day of The Art Engine.
Can I do a membership for only part of the year?
No. Membership of The Art Engine is for a 1 year term.
If The Art Engine doesn't open, will I get my money back?
Yes. All funds will be held in an escrow account, and will be refunded on the slight chance we do not open.
Studios
What studios will be in The Art Engine?
The Art Engine will have four fully equipped studios: ceramics, enamel & stained glass, painting, printmaking & book arts. Visit our Studios page for more information.
Who can use the studios?
Only members of The Art Engine can use the studios. Members must first undergo certification before using each studio.
How are members certified to use a studio?
Members must complete a 101 class before using an Art Engine studio. This ensures members become acquainted with the equipment and learn proper safety procedures for the space.
When can I use the studios?
Each studio will have open studio hours available for certified members. Schedules for open hours will be posted on each studio's page.
Can I bring a friend or child?
No. For safety and liability reasons, only members of The Art Engine can use the studios during open hours.
Classes
Will you offer classes?
Yes. Our plan is to have classes in all mediums and art forms. Members of The Art Engine will have the first priority in signing up for classes before they are released to the general public.
What kind of classes will you offer?
We plan to offer classes of all mediums and art forms. Our studios can also be used to teach dye classes, basketry, and more!
Will there be classes for kids?
Yes. Initially we will focus on classes for adults, but will add classes for kids once we become more established.
Do I need to be a member to take classes?
No. Our classes are open to all, but our members will get first access for signing up.