History of Meyer Art Center

Our History

From grassroots arts advocacy to a permanent home - the story of how Meyer Art Center came to be.

The History

The original building is from 1903, and although it was deemed unsalvageable, we are determined to honor and persevere what we can of the history and culture of this building.

Preserving vintage hardware for cabinets and doors.

Placing original building’s ladder on display.

Create a short story of the history of the original building.

Meyer Art Center history, photo 1

Our Journey

The story of SCAAC - how it was founded, grew, and ultimately became Meyer Art Center. Key milestones and community impact over the years.

1903

Building Origin

The building was constructed as a hardware company, serving as a pillar of Stanwood commerce.

2017–2019

SCAAC Began

Monthly meetings at Stanwood
City Hall with leaders of Camano
Arts Association and local civic
stakeholders.

2020-2021

Incorporation

Official Washington State Nonprofit & 501(c)(3) approval. Wish List with ArtSpace developed.

2022

Design Phase

Board adopts strategic framework. Renowned Olson- Kundig selected to design the new Art Center.

2023 - 2024

Engagement

Pilot programs begin. Historic Meyer Building donation received: $3M Capital + $2M Endowment.

2023

Mobile Art Center

Launched our classroom on wheels to bring art education directly to
the community.

2024

Meyer Art Festival

Highlighting the successful launch of our flagship community event.

2025 - 2026

Capital Campaign

Fundraising for the $13M project
and major gift prospecting.

TODAY

June 2026

Today

Permits in hand, over $7M raised, and a community rallying behind a $13M vision. The Meyer Art Center is closer to breaking ground than ever before.

2027

The Future

Construction underway. A new chapter for the arts in Stanwood — and a permanent home for creativity, culture, connection, and community.

The Meyer

The Meyer Family

The People Behind the Name

The Meyer family's connection to Stanwood, the building, and their legacy in supporting arts and community.

Part of Something Larger

Meyer Art Center's role in the Stanwood Creative District and the broader vision for an arts-centered community.

Economic Flourishing

The Meyer Art Center is helping establish Stanwood-Camano as a recognized arts destination — driving economic growth for artists, galleries, and local businesses while training and rooting the next generation of artists in this community.

Thriving Ecosystems

Through sculpture parks, farm partnerships, and events like Glass Quest and Plein Air Paint Out, the Meyer Art Center celebrates and protects the natural beauty that defines our region.

Relationship Bridging

Through salons, round tables, Discovery Tours, and community events, the Meyer Art Center builds meaningful bridges between Camano Island and Stanwood residents, young and old, newcomers and long-timers, and indigenous and settler communities.

Ready to Leave Your Mark?

The Meyer Art Center is being built by this community, for everyone. Your gift — at any level — helps make it real.