A Snapshot Of Our Journey

Friends and Artists,

Since its conception in the late 1960s, the dream to build an arts center in Vancouver has undergone many iterations, passing the torch across generations of visionaries and arts champions. Today we carry that torch as we reflect upon what our history has taught us, and the first concrete steps that led us to becoming who we are today. 

• 2002: Members of Clark County Leadership envisioned arts center designs in collaboration with Vancouver and Seattle architects.

• 2003 -2004: The CFA was founded as a nonprofit, led by a visionary board. The site committee researched venues in OR and WA to gather information about building and operating a performing arts center. 

• 2006-2009: Business plans, market studies, and feasibility assessments affirmed strong support. Five sites were considered for proposed development, but planning was largely postponed due to the Great Recession. Our passionate team of volunteers and board members assumed responsibility for office management and community outreach. 

• 2016-2017: The CFA stayed its course, completing a feasibility analysis and conceptual design study to shape future planning. Once a strong team could be recruited, the organization would have the capacity to carry the project forward.

• 2018-2019: With significant funding dedicated, an Executive Director, administrative staff, and specialized consultants were hired to carry out organizational operations and launch the strategic plan. In 2019 a new economic impact analysis, feasibility study, and sustainability study confirmed optimal timing for the project.

• 2020-present: Location assessment, proposal development and community engagement efforts transformed in innovative ways. The CFA launched its newsletter and initiated recurring focus groups with civic leaders and the arts community to reimagine how to accommodate the arts within our evolving context. Southwest Washington has never been more ready for an arts destination than at this time.

The perseverance and resilience of our community inspires us to embark on the next steps to bring this long-awaited dream to fruition for our proud region. For more information about our mission, visit our website. Thank you for helping us keep the arts accessible, thought-provoking, and vibrant. Together we can set the stage for a future where the arts are always growing and thriving for everyone. Have a reflective afternoon!

Sincerely,
The CFA Team