Our Mission
The Center for Arts and Learning is committed to enhancing the cultural life of central Vermont through its founding member organizations, as well as embracing individual artists, musicians and other nonprofits in a collaborative and welcoming community.
History
The Center for Arts and Learning was founded in 2012, when Monteverdi Music School, the River Rock School, and T.W. Wood Gallery formed a non-profit umbrella organization to manage and later purchase the building at 46 Barre St., previously St. Michael’s School and convent. Together, they had a vision to transform the building into a thriving hub for music and art education in central Vermont. Though River Rock School has since closed, we are hosting a number of exciting programs and organizations in their former space. The building now houses over 25 artists, writers, nonprofits, and makers.
Programs
As CAL continues to grow, so does our programming. We host visual art exhibits in our two art galleries, provide a free swap area we call the SHARE Room, and of course, maintain a full roster of studio artists in the building. We offer fiscal sponsorships to individuals and groups who would like some support for their projects. We are currently re-envisioning our programming for the coming year. If you are interested in being part of CAL’s programming, please contact Phayvanh at director@cal-vt.org.
Building
46 Barre St. is a special building. Located next to the Montpelier Senior Center and across the street from the Montpelier Rec Center, it is in an ideal spot for visitors of all ages to attend concerts, workshops, exhibitions, and other events. Since 2014, we have made major progress on building repairs and upgrades, including installing energy-efficient lighting with help from Efficiency Vermont.
In 2019, we installed an elevator to make the building more wheelchair accessible – a major project for which we received support from the State of Vermont, the Vermont Arts Council, and the National Life Group Foundation. We are committed to accessibility for all, and to inviting all members of our community to participate in our programming. Learn more about accessibility at CAL.