'An Exciting New Chapter for Our Community' ~ Honea Path Art Center Opens Its Doors 

The Honea Path Art Center has officially opened its doors, marking a significant milestone for the town's cultural landscape.

 

Located at 204 S. Main St., the center celebrated its grand opening on September 18, 2025, with a ceremony that drew residents and art enthusiasts alike.

 

The center offers a variety of programs designed to engage the community, including painting and pottery workshops, seasonal craft classes, rotating art exhibits, and partnerships with local schools and organizations.

 

Guided by a dedicated leadership team, the center is co-chaired by Jodie Fleming and Sam Gilmer, with an Arts Center Committee working closely alongside Amy Moore and the Watkins Community Center Board.

 

"This is an exciting new chapter for our community," said Moore, director of the Arts Center.

 

"We are creating a welcoming space where people of all ages and skill levels can explore their creativity, learn new skills, and connect through the arts."

 

The center's goal is to become a hub for artistic expression and community engagement.

 

On September 25, the Arts Center will host a Ceramic Christmas Tree Workshop at 6 p.m.

 

Participants will have the opportunity to paint their own 9-inch ceramic tree adorned with lights for a fee of $35 per person.

 

The event, which is limited to 20 people, has already sold out due to high demand.

 

The Watkins Community Center, originally built as Watkins Elementary School, now serves as the Town Hall and a versatile public facility for Honea Path.

 

Over the years, the building has been a hub for civic meetings, community celebrations, and cultural events.

 

In the early 2000s, the building became home to the Honea Path Arts Center, which operated under the Town of Honea Path for more than two decades.

 

During this time, the Arts Center hosted a variety of programs, from seasonal crafts to youth art activities.

 

On September 18, the Arts Center officially reopened under the direction of the Watkins Community Center.

 

"This is more than just an art space; it's about building a sense of belonging in Honea Path, giving people of all ages a place to create, and bringing our community together through culture and creativity," said Gilmer, co-chair of the Arts Center committee.

 

The Watkins Community Center features three classrooms and a multipurpose room for community use.

 

These areas can be used for various activities, including class reunions, wedding receptions, birthday parties, family gatherings, and community programs.

 

The multipurpose room includes a catering kitchen, tables and chairs, a stage with lighting, a microphone service, and a dressing room.

 

There is also space for the Honea Path food pantry, a clothes closet, and an exercise room located in the basement area at the rear of the building.

 

The Watkins Community Center operates through proceeds from the use of the space, fundraising events, and donations.

 

The center also receives hospitality tax revenue funds.