Thomasville Center for the Arts Secures $7,500 Grant for Walking Tour

The Thomasville Center for the Arts has been awarded a grant of $7,500 from the Georgia Association of REALTORS® to support its Public Art Program. This funding will help develop a self-guided public art walking tour in historic downtown Thomasville, showcasing over 30 artistic installations, including murals, bronze sculptures, and historic plaques.

Bobbie James, President of the Thomasville Area Board of REALTORS®, expressed the organization’s commitment to enhancing community culture through the arts. “We chose to support the Thomasville Center for the Arts because we recognize the vital role the arts play in enriching our community’s culture, fostering creativity, and enhancing the quality of life that makes Thomasville such a special place to live,” she stated.

The walking tour is designed to encourage both locals and visitors to explore the town’s rich history and vibrant cultural landscape. Darlene Crosby Taylor, Public Art Director at the Center, acknowledged the significance of the grant. “We are incredibly grateful for the generous support from our local and state REALTORS®,” she said. “This funding directly supports our community and offers a unique activity year-round while showcasing the essence of our town.”

Details of the Public Art Walking Tour

The public art walking tour will be accessible through a free app currently under development, with contributions from local artists, designers, and photographers. This initiative not only highlights Thomasville’s artistic spirit but also aims to enhance community engagement through art.

Scheduled for launch in December 2025, the tour will provide an interactive experience, allowing participants to learn about the artworks and their historical contexts. The project highlights the collaboration between the Thomasville Center for the Arts and the local REALTOR® Association to promote the town’s cultural heritage.

The Center’s public art program is further supported by an ongoing partnership with Ashley and 1915 South. This partnership enhances the Center’s ability to offer diverse artistic experiences to the community.

Community Impact and Future Events

The grant represents just one of many initiatives by the Thomasville Center for the Arts, which is dedicated to providing enriching cultural experiences. The Center also offers free weekday admission to rotating exhibitions and hosts monthly family events known as Free 2nd Saturday.

For those interested in exploring the arts in Thomasville, further information can be found on the Center’s website at www.thomasvillearts.org. As the public art walking tour approaches its launch, it promises to be a valuable addition to the community, enhancing the artistic landscape of Thomasville while celebrating its historical roots.