CHESTER SPRINGS, PA — Historic Yellow Springs will open the doors of the newly completed Fraley Art Studio during a special dedication ceremony and community open house on Friday, April 4. The event will take place from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., with remarks scheduled at 5:30 p.m., at 1671 Art School Road, Chester Springs, PA.
The Fraley Studio marks the transformation of the village’s last vacant historic building into a vibrant, ADA-compliant space for arts, culture, history, and education. Originally built in the mid-1800s, the building has previously served as a general store, post office, private residence, and offices for the Chester Springs Studio. The comprehensive restoration has turned it into a modern facility for artists and local communities.
“The culmination of years of planning and the restoration of this beautiful and historically significant building speaks directly to our mission at HYS,” said Stephen Cottone, Historic Yellow Springs Board Member and Property Committee Chair. “With this project we had the opportunity to put our mission into practice. Researching and restoring its historic façade and place within the village, sharing its story, and repurposing the interior for productive use as a now ADA and code compliant art studio. We could not be more pleased that students of both history and art have the chance to be inspired, reflect, and create in this special spot once again.”
Guests attending the open-house-style event can tour the revitalized studio, enjoy beverages and snacks, and watch live art demonstrations. The updated space will also allow Historic Yellow Springs to expand its arts programming, particularly full-day summer offerings for youth and teens.
“We took our time with this project,” said Tim Compton, Executive Director of Historic Yellow Springs. “We wanted it to reflect the needs and voices of our community. Through student tours, teacher meetings, and historic town tours, we’ve ensured that this space honors its past while embracing a future full of creative potential.”
To celebrate the opening of the Fraley Studio, Historic Yellow Springs will host a series of spring events to promote arts and community engagement, including the highly anticipated 52nd Annual Yellow Springs Art Show from April 26 to May 11. Other key events include the Art Show Opening Gala on April 25 and Art Around the Village, a family-friendly event, on May 11.
“We are thrilled to introduce the Fraley Studio as a new gathering space where the community can create, learn, and connect through art, history, and the environment,” shared Board President Matt Brady. “This project represents our deep commitment to making Yellow Springs a place where history and creativity thrive, and where everyone feels welcome. The Fraley Studio will be a hub for artistic expression, collaboration, and cultural engagement.”
The dedication ceremony is free and open to the public, with parking available on site. Join Historic Yellow Springs on April 4 to celebrate a bright future for the arts in this historic village. Click here to RSVP.
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