by Patti Ortiz, Marketing and Art Education Programs Manager, ‘Tis Art Center and Gallery
There is more than meets the eye when it comes to the 19th skyscraper bearing the simple name “ ‘Tis” located on Cortez Street across from the Courthouse Plaza in downtown Prescott. It is one of three 19th century buildings Ann Carson Dater rescued during her lifetime that were destined to become cultural centers for the arts she cherished; the Ariel Theatre in Gallipolis, Ohio, the ‘Tis Art Center and Gallery and the Elks Theatre and Performing Arts Center here in Prescott.
The ‘Tis Building at 105 S. Cortez St. is home to the ‘Tis Art Center and Gallery, which houses two galleries of contemporary art devoted to exclusively showcasing works by Prescott-area artists.
The exhibits change frequently and feature affordable fine art paintings, photography and sculpture all of which are displayed in museum-style fashion. A charming parlor area with a relaxing comfortable settee awaits visitors near the rear of the main floor gallery. Within it are found some of the most beautiful handcrafted jewelry and wearable art in the state.
But there is more to ‘Tis and the ‘Tis Building. The second-floor houses six beautiful 19th century-style office suites with exquisite wood accents and frosted window panels, and the third floor is an elegant banquet hall facility that overlooks the Courthouse Plaza. All are offered at affordable rates.
Though not an historical building, Mrs. Dater is also responsible for the ‘Tis acquisition and remodel of the other ‘Tis building at 235 N. Marina St. The ‘Tis Annex Art Education Building is used exclusively for art education for children and adults.
The STEPS Art Education Program is free to Prescott-area children ages 5-14. Classes are taught by professional art educators and local artist, and the class topics focus on the integration of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts, and Mathematics) concepts and cultural explorations.
Classrooms in the ‘Tis Annex are also available to local and traveling artists for conducting workshops and meetings.
Exhibit information, office suite/banquet hall rates and art education opportunities can be found at www.TisArtGallery.com
