our vision.
Harmer's Town Art Center will be the Upper Chesapeake region's premier arts and cultural destination - a vibrant campus where working artists thrive, learners of every age discover new skills, and the story of Havre de Grace inspires visitors from across the Mid-Atlantic.
the plan.
Planning and design are complete, and the project is entering its next phase. Demolition of the existing building is scheduled for late 2026, with construction of the new facility beginning shortly thereafter. The center is expected to be open by the end of 2027.
When completed, Harmer's Town Art Center will support working artists, expand educational opportunities for students, residents, and underserved communities, strengthen cultural tourism, preserve the history of Havre de Grace, and serve as a lasting cultural and economic asset for generations to come.
our future.
Harmer's Town Art Center is creating a vibrant regional destination where creativity, history, and ​community come together. Located in the heart of Havre de Grace's Arts & Entertainment District, the new campus will provide inspiring spaces for artists to create, students to learn, visitors to explore, and neighbors to connect. Designed to serve the Upper Chesapeake region for generations to come, every space has a purpose: to foster creativity, preserve local history, support working artists, and make the arts accessible to everyone.
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Professional Artist Studios
Working artists will create in private studios that are visible and welcoming to the public. Visitors will have the opportunity to watch artists at work, learn about the creative process, purchase original artwork, attend demonstrations, and participate in workshops - creating meaningful connections between artists and the community.
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Makerspaces
State-of-the-art makerspaces will provide access to specialized equipment and creative tools that many artists and hobbyists cannot afford on their own. Ceramic and glass studios, 3D fabrication equipment, and flexible makerspaces will support artists, entrepreneurs, students, and lifelong learners wile encouraging innovation, collaboration, and skill development.
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Education & Creative Learning
Bright, flexible classrooms will host year-round classes, workshops, summer camps, school field trips, lectures, artist demonstrations, and community programs. Designed for learners of every age and ability, these spaces will inspire creativity while making arts education accessible to all.
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Havre de Grace Museum
The museum will celebrate the remarkable history of Havre de Grace - from its earliest days as Harmer's Town to the community we know today. Interactive exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling will preserve our heritage while sharing the fascinating story of the town that was once considered as the nation's capital.
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Galleries & Museum Store
Beautiful galleries will feature rotating exhibits by regional and visiting artists, student showcases, and special exhibitions that encourage visitors to return throughout the year. The museum store will offer original artwork, handcrafted gifts, books, and locally inspired merchandise while supporting artists through direct sales.
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Graw Alley Artist Park
Opened in 2023, Graw Alley Artist Park transformed an overlooked alley into an engaging public art destination. Visitors stroll through landscaped walkways, discover colorful murals and sculptures, and experience the story of Havre de Grace through public art. The park has become the first phase of HTAC's vision and a welcoming gateway to the future campus.
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A Designation for Everyone
Whether you're taking your first art class, creating your next masterpiece, exploring local history, attending a festival, or simply enjoying an afternoon surrounded by creativity, Harmer's Town Art Cneter will be a place where artists thrive, communities connect, and inspiration is always within reach.