The Matthews Opera House & Arts Center is excited to partner with the Spearfish nonprofit makeSPACE (Spearfish Partnership for Arts, Cycling, and Equity) to bring collaborative arts and humanities programming to the community. Supported by a grant from the South Dakota Arts Council and managed by makeSPACE, this partnership allows the Matthews to provide space and staff support to plan, develop, and implement ongoing and new programs.
As part of this collaboration, we are launching our Art Library later this year, a library-style resource designed to make art materials more accessible to everyone. The library removes the cost barrier of buying new supplies to try a new skill and supports creativity by offering a wide range of supplies for artists of all ages and skill levels.
How It Will Work:
- The Art Supply Library will be open to community members who register for a membership. Membership will be $10 per month to help with operations and to replace supplies.
- Members will contact Tia, our Visual Arts Coordinator, to discuss project ideas.
- Supplies for projects will be pulled out, and visitors can explore to see what’s available.
- Selected supplies are placed in a bin and inventoried, with both the artist and Matthews staff keeping a record of items, check-out/in dates, and contact info.
- Supplies may be borrowed for up to 3 weeks, with a one-week waiting period before re-checkout unless approved by staff. Returned items are re-inventoried for damage or replacement of single-use materials.
We’re thrilled to open this shared creative space this spring, giving artists the tools, inspiration, and community support to bring their ideas to life. We will have regular updates on social media about when the Library will be open!
Open MakeSpace Studio Hours
Current MakeSpace hours are on hold as we transition to our new space in the theater. Check back for updates!
Bring a project you’re working on, or browse and use our wide range of art supplies, and connect with fellow makers in the historic Matthews Theater! Come create, experiment, and be inspired in a welcoming, community-focused space.
