A Groundbreaking Addition: A Dramatic Future For The Art And Culture Center/Hollywood

Scheduled for Tuesday, April 30th, at 6:00 pm, the official Groundbreaking Ceremony will herald the commencement of construction for this transformative project. The dramatic design will merge with the existing two-story, 1924 Mediterranean Revival architecture of the Kagey Home, which houses the Center’s Galleries and Administrative Offices.

Nestled within the Center's historic Kagey Home facility, the new wing promises to be a testament to contemporary design and architectural innovation, the construction of a new, nearly 5,000-square-foot arts education wing will be contemporary.

At the core of this expansion lies a commitment to providing unparalleled resources for visual arts and multimedia education. Equipped with studio classrooms and a multifunctional room tailored for dance, drama, artist talks, and film screenings, the new wing will serve as a hub for creativity and collaboration. Its design, characterized by a striking façade and a distinctive rooftop silhouette, seamlessly integrates with the timeless elegance of the existing Mediterranean Revival architecture, preserving the Center's rich heritage while embracing the spirit of modernity.

Moreover, the inclusion of an outdoor courtyard promises to elevate the visitor experience, offering a serene retreat amidst the bustling energy of Downtown Hollywood. As the new wing takes shape, it will not only redefine the physical landscape of the Center but also symbolize a harmonious fusion of past and present, bridging the architectural legacy of the Kagey Home with the bold vision for the future, adjoining functional spaces built about 100 years apart.

The story of the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is deeply intertwined with the history of its illustrious surroundings. Housed within the meticulously preserved estate of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Kagey, the Center pays homage to a bygone era while embracing the evolving cultural tapestry of Hollywood. Originally constructed in 1924, the Kagey Home stands as a testament to the city's enduring spirit, serving as a beacon of resilience amidst the tumultuous upheavals of history.

The home is a beautiful example of Mediterranean Revival architecture. It is one of Hollywood’s first show-place homes and was completed a year before the City of Hollywood was incorporated.

Jack Kagey was a pivotal figure in Hollywood's early development, he played a vital role in shaping the landscape of the burgeoning community. As the Sales Manager of Joseph W. Young's Hollywood Land and Water Company, Kagey epitomized the entrepreneurial zeal that defined the era of the 1920’s Real Estate Boom. The construction of his eponymous home, funded by winnings from a prestigious sales contest, heralded a new chapter in the city's architectural legacy.

Despite facing the wrath of a devastating hurricane in 1926, the Kagey Home endured, standing as a resilient testament to the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants.

The home continued to be used as a private residence until 1960, when it was converted into a funeral home and doubled in size to 12,000 square feet. The expansion included the addition of a chapel along the east side, which later became the Center’s Main Gallery. Many of the home’s original features from the 1920’s have been retained, such as the glass doorknobs, wrought-iron railings, tiles on the second-floor balcony, wood moldings, floors and arches. In January of 1990, the property was purchased by the City of Hollywood to become the new home of the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood, which was previously located in a building on Hollywood Beach. The Mansion was renovated with Private and Historical Grant monies and was lovingly restored to its former glory, reopening its doors to the public on February 2nd, 1992.

Today, the Center stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Kagey Home, weaving together elements of the past with a forward-thinking approach to arts education and community outreach. With the forthcoming addition of the new arts education wing, the Center is poised to embark on a new chapter of growth and innovation, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike.

The expansion of the Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is not merely a physical endeavor but a testament to the city's unwavering commitment to the arts. Through strategic investments and visionary leadership, Hollywood has emerged as a cultural epicenter, fostering creativity and nurturing talent across generations. As the new wing takes shape, it serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, embodying the transformative power of art to unite, inspire, and uplift.

The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood's groundbreaking addition heralds a dramatic future filled with boundless possibilities. Rooted in a rich tapestry of history and heritage, yet poised on the cusp of innovation and progress, the Center stands as a testament to the enduring power of art to shape communities and transform lives. Through its programs and facilities, the Center fosters a creative environment where new and challenging work can flourish through exhibitions and art-making activities that reflect the highest standards of artistry and diversity.

The Art and Culture Center/Hollywood is located at 1650 Harrison Street, Hollywood, Florida 33020, one block south of Hollywood Boulevard at the corner of South 17th Avenue and Harrison Street, across from ArtsPark at Young Circle. There is ample free parking in two lots on the east and west sides of the Art and Culture Center. For information, call Visitor Services at: (954) 921-3274.

For citizens that would like to attend the official Groundbreaking Ceremony, please RSVP your attendance at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ground-breaking-for-the-art-and-culture-center-arts-education-center-tickets-871790828837?aff=oddtdtcreator

As construction commences and dreams take flight, let us celebrate the spirit of creativity that defines Hollywood and propels us towards a brighter tomorrow.